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About YRIPP - YRIPP

What is an Independent Person?

The current legislation in Victoria requires that a person over the age of 18 be present during formal police questioning of a young person. A young person is defined as being under 18 years of age. The law requires that when a parent or guardian is unavailable, an ‘Independent Person’ must be present, as per section 464E of the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic).

A coordinated system of support

The establishment of a coordinated Independent Person system of support provided to young people in police custody offers a significant opportunity to address the over-representation of young people in the justice system, including those from migrant and refugee communities.

Program Rationale

Over-representation of young people in justice system
Concern around numbers of newly arrived and refugee young people coming to police attention
Early intervention: The first interview with police is an ideal diversionary opportunity
Consistency of training
Cultural sensitivity in dealing with young people

Program Aims

To provide police with timely access to trained Independent Persons 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
To provide up to date training and ongoing support to volunteer IPs.
To offer young people information about, and referral to, relevant local support services that may be able to help them.
Distribute resources to police and parents about the juvenile justice system and support services.
Facilitate access to 24-hour telephone legal advice for young people in police custody.

Objectives of YRIPP

Program Features and Results

Publications and Reports

Employment with YRIPP

Media