The Queensland government has stripped the Youth Advocacy Centre (YAC) of its funding for bail support services in Brisbane. The YAC, which has operated for over 40 years, provides legal representation and social work support to children navigating the justice system, often working to divert young people away from incarceration.

Katherine Hayes, the chief executive of the YAC, stated that the organization was informed last week that its $3 million in funding would be discontinued. The decision has sparked significant controversy, with critics characterizing the move as a "vindictive" response to the center’s vocal opposition to government policies regarding youth justice.

While the government has not yet provided a detailed public justification for the specific removal of this funding, the timing has led to accusations that the state is using its financial power to silence a primary critic. The YAC has historically played a critical role in the legal landscape, as it was established in 1981 to address a significant gap in legal representation for children facing court. The loss of this funding threatens the center's ability to continue its bail support programs, which are designed to help young people avoid detention while awaiting trial. The situation remains developing as stakeholders await further comment from government officials regarding the rationale behind the funding withdrawal.