Neurodiversity in the Australian youth justice system: prevalence and implications

This presentation will provide an overview of:

• The 2018 prevalence study of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and other neurodevelopmental impairments conducted at Banksia Hill Detention Centre in Western Australia, and updated evidence from youth justice systems nationally
• The workforce development component of the study, including a demonstration of training resources aiming to upskill justice professionals in the management of young people with neurodisability
• The implications and translation of this research, recommendations, and related responses from agencies nationally

Presenter

Dr Hayley Passmore, Lecturer, University of Western Australia Law School

Dr Hayley Passmore is based in Boorloo (Perth) and is a Lecturer in Criminology at the University of Western Australia Law School and an independent panel member on the ACT Government’s Therapeutic Support Panel. Hayley has qualifications in child health, criminology and psychology, and over 13 years experience working in adult corrections and youth justice facilities. In 2019, she completed her PhD focusing on the workforce development component of the internationally recognised Banksia Hill Detention Centre study; the first Australian study to explore the prevalence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder among justice-involved young people. Hayley pioneered Reframe Training; an evidence-based program educating frontline staff on the management and support of young people with neurodisability which has been delivered in the Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. Hayley has received international recognition for her research and its impact, including receiving a Churchill Fellowship completed in 2023, being named a 2021 AMP Foundation Tomorrow Maker and a 2022 WA Finalist for Young Australian of the Year.