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flag New South Wales is updating its doli incapax law to increase accountability for children aged 10–13 by requiring proof of understanding criminality, while expanding diversion programs.

flag New South Wales is reforming its doli incapax law, which protects children aged 10 to 13 from criminal conviction unless prosecutors prove they understood their actions were seriously wrong. flag The new legislation, introduced by Attorney-General Michael Daley, codifies the legal test and mandates courts to consider factors like planning or efforts to conceal identity when assessing a child’s understanding. flag The changes aim to increase accountability, especially after convictions for children under 14 dropped to 16% in 2022–23. flag The reforms also expand access to diversion programs, including youth justice conferences and mental health support, to address underlying issues. flag Critics warn the changes may lead to more children entering the justice system, while some police and rural leaders say they don’t go far enough to address rising youth crime. flag The move is part of a broader $23 million investment in youth crime prevention across regional NSW.

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