Northern Territory Lowers Age of Criminal Responsibility to 10

The new Northern Territory government, led by Chief Minister-elect Lia Finocchiaro of the Country Liberal Party (CLP), plans to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 12 to 10 years as part of a broader overhaul of criminal law. This controversial decision has drawn criticism from medical and legal experts, who argue that it will harm children and fail to reduce crime rates. Finocchiaro advocates for tougher penalties, including boot camps for young offenders, and plans to introduce 'Declan's Law' to tighten bail laws, named after a murder victim. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander advocacy groups have expressed concern over the implications of such policies, citing the detrimental effects of detention on young people. The CLP's recent electoral victory has shifted the political landscape, leaving the Labor Party with only four seats. The government's approach is seen as prioritizing law and order over rehabilitation and community safety.