MELBOURNE, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The government of Australia's Victoria state announced a major crackdown on youth crime Wednesday, with teenage offenders to face tougher penalties for breaking the law.
Under legislation passed by the Victorian parliament on Wednesday, teen offenders on the run from police will be publicly identified while rioters within the youth justice system will have their sentences extended.
The new laws come as the state tries to counter a youth justice crisis which has seen a number of riots and prison-breaks across the system.
"We're transforming the way our justice system works with the largest ever suite of legislative reforms. We're cracking down on violent offenders, overhauling our bail laws and prioritising community safety," Martin Pakula, Victoria's Attorney-General, told reporters in Melbourne on Wednesday.
"Our reforms will make sure serious offenders are held accountable for their actions and punished for their crimes, and ensure that sentences are more in line with community expectations."
In addition to the law reforms, the government also announced funding for a new "fit-for-purpose" detainment facility in the state budget.
The need for the new facility arose after existing facilities were significantly damaged in riots.
In one such riot on Jan. 15, offenders escaped from the Malmsbury youth justice center, 96 km northwest of Melbourne, many of whom stole cars and went on the run for more than 24 hours before being apprehended.
Under the new laws, offenders who attempt to riot, or escape, as those at Malmsbury did will face the possibility of having their sentences extended.
Offenders within the system older than 18 who riot will be charged as adults with the possibility of being moved to an adult prison.
