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The new approach to youth crime in Victoria is possibly the worst decision made by the government (“ Violent kids to get adult sentences in new regime ”, 12/11). Experts tell us that punitive approaches make us feel better, but evidence shows they don’t work. There is no quick fix for a complex problem. Why are 14-year-olds behaving like this? The solutions lie in inclusion and long-term opportunity provided by skill building, employment, housing and belonging. If some need longer sentences, then enable the Children’s Court to provid

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