Behind the Sentence: Young Voices on Family and Incarceration

Explore the intersections of justice, community, and advocacy in strengthening systems for young people—especially those with incarcerated parents. This discussion will examine restorative justice and other community-driven approaches that promote healing, connection, and long-term support.

Bringing together experts from education, social work, law, and youth advocacy, this panel will explore how different sectors can collaborate to address the unique challenges these young people and their families face. Together, we will consider justice as a collective effort—one that fosters advocacy, heals harm, and builds stronger, more connected communities.

Panel Discussion: Ralph Gotlib (Bindjiroo Yaluk Community School), Associate Professor Catherine Flynn (Monash University), and Moana Wati (Shine for Kids) bring their expertise in education, research, and youth advocacy to this important discussion on supporting young people affected by crime, including those with incarcerated parents.

This Victoria Law Week event will explore the connections between family, incarceration, and community response, highlighting the need for stronger support systems. Through their diverse perspectives, the panellists will examine how different sectors can work together to reimagine justice as a collective responsibility.

Whether you work in education, justice, or social services, or are interested in a legal system that better serves young people, this conversation will foster dialogue, raise awareness, and inspire meaningful change.

Special Feature: Following the panel discussion, stay for the launch of Behind the Sentence, a powerful projection artwork at Collingwood Yards by artist and Urban Campfire curator, Dr. Paula Mahoney. This large-scale projection gives voice to young people with incarcerated parents, sharing their reflections and experiences in an evocative visual display.

About the Behind the Sentence Art Projection Project: In partnership with Monash University and Shine for Kids, the Behind the Sentence projection artwork will present young people’s reflections.

Children and Young People of incarcerated parents are often unseen and unheard, with research identifying them as "hidden victims" of the justice system. Inspired by the Monash University report "Living with a parent in Pr*son: Learning from young people", this project seeks to amplify their voices.

Host or Publisher Neighbourhood Justice Centre