Family Group Conference
Before
Overview
If you are thinking about taking part in a Family Group Conference, this page explains the support available beforehand. Learn about ways to participate and what support can be arranged to help you prepare.
Taking part in a Youth Justice Family Group Conference
Youth Justice Family Group Conferences are held to talk about what has happened and agree on a plan to help the child or young person put things right.
Before the conference
If you choose to take part in a Family Group Conference, a Youth Justice Coordinator will get in touch with you and arrange a meeting in person to talk about taking part.
They can answer any questions you have, explain what happens, and talk about safety and protection for you.
They will also:
- get your views on when and where the meeting should happen
- tell you about any financial support you might be able to get
- ask you about any cultural, language or disability needs.
To find out about the people involved in the Family Group Conference process, visit: Youth Court support.
Other ways to participate
If you don’t feel comfortable or safe attending in person, you can share your views in a way that works for you.
You can:
- join by phone, teleconference, or virtually
- ask someone to speak, or attend, on your behalf
- have a Youth Justice Coordinator or police talk about your views
- write a letter to be read out as a submission.
Safety and protection
If you choose to attend a Family Group Conference a Youth Justice Coordinator will talk with you beforehand about what you need to feel safe.
They can:
- arrange security support and a secure waiting area
- plan seating and make sure there are safe ways to arrive and leave
- coordinate times so you feel safe
- agree on a signal you can use if you feel unsafe and need the conference paused
- share information beforehand so you know what to expect
- make sure behaviour expectations are set for everyone attending.
If at any point you feel unsafe, the Youth Justice Coordinator can pause the conference, and you can leave. Your safety and wellbeing are the priority, and support will be available to you.
Communication support
You will be supported to communicate in a way that works best for you. If you need any assistance, let the Youth Justice Coordinator know in advance.
They can:
- arrange an interpreter or translator
- arrange a communication assistant
- work with you to meet specific communication about hearing, vision, speech or understanding.
Taking support people with you
Support people are welcome at the conference. If you would like to bring along a friend, family member, or advocate, let the Youth Justice Coordinator know.
To find out what to expect from a Family Group Conference visit: During a family group conference.