The Katherine Justice Reinvestment Symposium, “Katherine Justice Reinvestment: Have Your Say,” will take place at the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre on 19-20 September 2024.
This event brings together local and national experts in law, justice, health, education, and social services, alongside Katherine community members, to explore new solutions to reduce crime and strengthen the community.
Professor James Smith, Deputy Dean of Rural and Remote Health NT at Flinders University and one of the symposium organisers, says, “Justice reinvestment empowers First Nations communities to create local solutions that divert at-risk individuals from the criminal justice system.”
A highlight of the symposium will be the keynote address, “Learning about JR across the NT – The Groote Island Story,” delivered by the Anindilyakwa Land Council team.
Attendees can also engage in interactive workshops, including “Strategies for Successfully Engaging Youth: What Can We Learn from Others?” and “Understanding Intersections Between Justice and Health: What’s Already Happening in Katherine?” These sessions will focus on practical strategies to address youth disengagement and the critical links between health and justice.
Other speakers and attendees include Hon Jo Hersey, Minister for Education and Training, Early Education, Public Service; Judge Thomasin Opie, NT Local Court; Ms Shahleena Musk, Children’s Commissioner for the NT; Professors Mark Halsey and Ian Goodwin-Smith from Flinders University; and representatives from the NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services NT PHN, NT Legal Aid, NAAJA and Wurli Wurlinjang Health Service.
Bandjin woman and Katherine resident Christine Butler is excited that the symposium will lead the community-driven effort.
“This symposium marks the beginning of a community-led approach, addressing the root causes of crime—poverty, unemployment, and homelessness—rather than focusing on incarceration,” she says.
The event encourages local participation, offering a platform for the Katherine community to influence decision-making and shape programs that directly affect their lives.
Rick Fletcher, a lifelong Katherine resident, notes, “The current justice system isn’t working. To tackle these issues, we need community involvement and new strategies. This is a crucial step forward.”
The Consortium behind the initiative includes Savanna Solutions, Jesuit Social Services, and Flinders University, with Flinders coordinating the 2024 symposium.
With almost 100 registrations received to date, the symposium will be a vibrant space for exchange of ideas and will form initiative directions for the near future. Only limited spots to participate are now available—submit your expression of interest at fnt.katherine@flinders.edu.au.
This initiative aims to transform Katherine’s approach to justice, focusing on community-led solutions to build a safer and more connected future.