Fresh ‘Adult Time’ Pledge in Youth Crime Crackdown

“Adult crime, adult time” laws could be introduced in another state as opposition politicians paint a pre-election picture of streets gripped by lawlessness. The NSW coalition on Sunday pledged to make young offenders face tougher penalties within 100 days of winning government if it triumphs at the March state election. The opposition said it would expand the list of serious indictable offences, meaning adult sentences could apply for juveniles who committed a greater range of crimes. The state Labor government recently announced a suite of reforms that could see children suspected of organising crime-linked public shootings or firebombings to be placed on trial as adults and face tougher penalties.