CHAIR (Mr Debus) —I declare open this public hearing of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, inquiring into the high level of involvement of Indigenous juveniles and young adults in the criminal justice system. I acknowledge the Ngunawal and Ngambri people, the traditional custodians of this land. We acknowledge the present Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who reside in this area. I should formally say that a meeting such as this is a formal proceeding of parliament. Everything said should therefore be factual and honest. It can be considered a serious matter to attempt to mislead the committee. I invite witnesses to make comments that will assist us in our inquiry into involvement of Indigenous youth in the criminal justice system with a focus on prevention and early intervention. This hearing is open to the public and a transcript of what is said will be placed on the committee’s website.

[12.15 pm]