In a surprising turn of events, a group of Victorian teenagers, previously convicted of violent home invasions and carjackings, had their Community Corrections Orders (CCOs) adjusted to permit a taxpayer-funded excursion. This trip, organized by the state’s Department of Justice and Community Safety, allowed the teens to experience the thrill of theme parks on the Gold Coast.

While these teenagers managed to avoid jail time for their offenses, the opportunity to embark on an interstate journey has raised eyebrows. According to 9News, the excursion, which included sightseeing and visits to popular theme parks, took place in recent months.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan clarified the situation by stating that no youth justice officials accompanied the young individuals during this trip. Additionally, Allan assured the public that the state’s youth justice system did not finance this controversial outing.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said “no youth justice officials were involved in accompanying these young people”.

Allan also confirmed the state’s youth justice system did not fund the trip.

“What we are making it very clear in Victoria is that there are consequences for offending,” Allan said.

Victoria’s opposition leader Brad Battin said convicted youth offenders should not be “going off on holidays”.

“At the moment, we’re seeing kids go to Europe and possibly up to the Gold Coast,” Battin said.

“Where is the message to kids to say that crime doesn’t pay here in Victoria?”

In a statement, a spokesperson for the NDIS said it was investigating the claims.

“The NDIS provides disability-related supports to all eligible Australians,” the spokesperson told 9News.

“The NDIS is not responsible for the rehabilitation of youth offenders.”