Summary of the Report:

The Blueprint for Change report, prepared by the Diagrama Foundation following their visit to the Northern Territory (NT) in 2019, evaluates the current youth justice system in the NT and explores the feasibility of implementing Diagrama’s rehabilitative youth detention model. Diagrama, a Spanish not-for-profit organization, has successfully operated youth custodial facilities using a therapeutic model with low recidivism rates.

The report finds that, despite some progress since the Royal Commission into the Protection and Detention of Children in the NT, further reform is needed. Key concerns include the high number of young people on remand, ineffective case management, and the absence of a structured, rehabilitative approach in youth detention centers. Diagrama concludes that its model—centered on education, positive role modeling, structured routines, and therapeutic interventions—could be adapted to the NT to transform youth detention facilities.

Key Recommendations:

1. Shift the Focus from Infrastructure to Rehabilitation – Instead of prioritizing new detention facility construction, implement an evidence-based model of care in existing centers (Don Dale & Alice Springs).
2. Enable NGO-Led Detention Services – Amend legislation to allow not-for-profit organizations with expertise to manage youth detention centers.
3. Pilot the Diagrama Model – Run a trial of the Diagrama model in a refurbished Don Dale site.
4. Develop Secure Therapeutic Facilities – Establish 20-bed secure facilities in Tennant Creek and Katherine to support youth in remand, detention, and community orders.
5. Improve Case Management & Bail Support – Strengthen bail support accommodation and integrate a structured rehabilitative model.
6. Implement System-Wide Youth Justice Reforms – Introduce a single Act for youth justice and care, aligning NT law with international standards.