The Institute for Restorative Justice and Penal Reform

Welcome to the web site of the The Institute for Restrorative Justice and Penal Reform. You can use this web site to find out more about the Institute's aims and objectives, the practical work that we undertake in the community, and the events that we organise to advance our ideas and goals.

Upcoming Events

2008 Conference - "Discovering Balance..."

In October this year the Institute for Restorative Justice & Penal Reform together with the Centre for Social & Community Research at Murdoch University is hosting 'Discovering Balance...', an international conference to explore issues relating to penal reform, restorative justice and human rights. See our Discovering Balance conference page for details.

Please note that conference registration is now open. Check the Registration page for more information.

What is Restorative Justice?

Restorative justice is an approach to justice that focuses on repairing the harm caused by criminal activity while holding the offender responsible for his/her actions. Restorative justice provides an opportunity for the parties directly affected by a crime (victims, offenders, community) to identify and address their needs in the aftermath of criminal activity, and seek a resolution that promotes healing, reparation and reintegration, and prevents future harm. Within restorative justice processes the victim plays a central role in defining the harm and how it ought to be repaired.

If you have any questions about restorative justice, prison reform, or about our work in general, you can email us at contact@irjpr.net.au - or check our contact page for more details.