During the second half of 2018–19, the AIC partnered with the Australasian Youth Justice Administrators and NSW Juvenile Justice to deliver the 3rd Australasian Youth Justice Conference. Held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney from 30 April to 2 May 2019, the conference brought together delegates from across Australia and New Zealand. Youth justice administrators, practitioners and policymakers from government and non-government organisations joined with academics and students to discuss topics related to the theme ‘Contemporary challenges, innovative solutions’. The overwhelming interest in youth justice led to a sold-out event.

Over three days delegates heard from keynote speakers from the United States and New Zealand as well as Australia. Presentations addressed the conference sub-themes of emerging technologies, mental health, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, education, countering violent extremism, the over-representation of various groups, and safety, security and rehabilitation.

Throughout the conference, formal presentations were complemented by an exhibition of artworks produced by residents of NSW Juvenile Justice facilities, as well as a display showcasing the agency’s history and its role working with young people engaged in the criminal justice system. The diverse range of people coming together to discuss shared passions and interests made for vibrant and rewarding networking opportunities. The AIC was proud to have been a part of this important event, the success of which was borne out by the highly positive feedback from delegates and youth justice administrators alike.