BREAKING: Youth machete crime has surged in Melbourne, prompting state officials to implement a ban on the sale and possession of machetes starting next month. In response to this urgent crisis, a new initiative called the ‘Sharp Choices – Bladed Weapon Diversion Program’ has just launched in the city’s western suburbs, aiming to tackle the root causes of weapon-related offenses among young people.
The $35,000 program, funded by the Wyndham council, is designed to provide early intervention through educational modules and ongoing case management. Eamon, program manager at The Youth Junction, emphasized the importance of understanding the personal experiences of young people involved in weapon offenses. “We didn’t want to come at it through a punitive approach,” Eamon stated. “Young people may carry weapons due to very real fears.”
Research highlights that peer influence plays a crucial role in weapon carrying among youth. Eamon explained, “The presence of edged weapons in a peer group significantly increases the likelihood that others will carry weapons as well.” This social proliferation is a critical factor in the surge of youth machete crimes.
The program begins with one-on-one sessions where case managers assess individual risk factors before introducing participants to group sessions of four to six youths. These sessions focus on building communication skills and fostering empathy. Eamon noted, “A major risk factor is young people not being aware of their personal strengths. We aim to help them recognize and leverage these strengths.”
One innovative aspect of the program includes a focus on legal awareness. With support from West Justice, participants learn about the serious implications of weapons possession charges, which can negatively impact travel, employment, and educational opportunities. “These sessions make abstract concepts more digestible and relatable for young people,” Eamon added.
Additionally, the program incorporates immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences developed by Virtual Decisions, a creative arts and educational technology firm based in Birmingham, England. These VR scenarios allow participants to navigate realistic situations related to weapon carrying without exposure to violence. Claire Downes, CEO of Virtual Decisions, highlighted that these programs engage participants emotionally, fostering essential life skills and encouraging positive behavior changes.
The duration of each participant’s involvement in the ‘Sharp Choices’ program is tailored to their individual needs. Eamon stated, “We want to ensure that young people feel adequately supported and not abruptly cut off before they are ready for independence.”
The program will undergo evaluation by Victoria University (VU) to assess effectiveness and potential areas for improvement. Eamon expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, aiming to build a strong evidence base for the program and expand its reach to prevent youth from entering the justice system.
As youth machete crime continues to pose a significant threat, the ‘Sharp Choices’ program represents a proactive step forward in empowering young people and addressing the underlying issues contributing to weapon carry. With immediate engagement and support, the initiative aims to foster safer communities across Melbourne’s western suburbs.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as officials continue to combat youth violence and promote safer choices among young people.
