The first part of this study reviews the 'what works' research literature on the rehabilitation of young offenders; compares this evidence based practice with current service delivery in juvenile justice in Victoria; and describes an evidence based, best practice framework for the delivery of rehabilitation services to young offenders in Victoria. The second part of the study presents a literature review of juvenile justice rehabilitation programs. The review outlines the 'what works' approach to offender rehabilitation; describes the main areas of criminogenic need likely to be found in juvenile justice populations; reviews the efficacy of intervention programs; and considers specific needs related to age, gender, Indigenous status and disabilities. An appendix sets out a bibliography of the Australian Institute of Criminology database of rehabilitation programs for juvenile justice.
Prepared for the Department of Human Services, Victoria.