The use of public space by young people has generated significant debate in all jurisdictions. Young people often feel that they are being discriminated against on the basis of their visibility and age, and are often on the receiving end of inappropriate policing. These issues appear to be particularly heightened amongst indigenous young people, and those from a culturally diverse background.
The NCYLC has acted as a national clearing-house on issues and legal developments relating to the use of public space by young people. In December 1999, the NCYLC participated in a roundtable forum, organised by the National Crime Prevention Strategy of the Commonwealth Attorney-General's Department, called Negotiating Young People's Use of Public Space. Since then, it has continued to be actively involved in monitoring developments of the issue through its involvement on the National Youth Advocates Network and the Youth Justice Coalition.
The Centre is dedicated to ensuring a safe public environment for Australia's young people, free from violence and threats to their rights as citizens.