A Restorative City for New South Wales - Could Newcastle Be a Model?

Abstract

There is growing evidence that the experiences of restorative cities around the world, such as Hull UK, Oakland US and Whanganui New Zealand, have been positive for their citizenry. In implementing interdisciplinary restorative practices and restorative justice measures across a range of systems including education, justice, child welfare and health, restorative cities have achieved transformational change in the culture and social fabric of their communities. The focus has been on viewing children and youth (being amongst the most vulnerable in these communities) as potential future community leaders. The evidence for restorative practice is examined through vignettes of the existing models and experiences of international restorative cities before considering the suitability of Newcastle, New South Wales as a candidate for a restorative city. Lessons learned from these cities may advance the current process of urban renewal in Newcastle through developing strategies for social, cultural and economic change to address enduring forms of harm and pockets of disadvantage. A blueprint is devised for Newcastle to move towards being a restorative city.

Keywords: Restorative City, restorative practices, youth justice, urban renewal

JEL Classification: K14, K49