Published 1 May 2025
About this booklet
This free booklet is for young people who want to know how the law in Victoria affects them. It has information about:
- what you can and can't do because of your age
- your rights
- school, bullying and staying safe online
- issues relating to work, finding a place to live and driving
- relationships, identity and family issues
- sex and consent
- sexting and image-based abuse
- changing your gender on formal documents
- vaping, cigarettes, alcohol and other drugs
- dealing with the police, security guards and public transport inspectors
- laws about weapons
- where to get help.
Updates to laws
The age at which you can be charged with a crime has changed.
From 30 September 2025, you need to be at least 12 years old to be charged with a crime. This is an increase from 10 years old.
If you have a current criminal matter and were charged when you were under 12, you can contact us for help.
Updated