The Conversation | O Jonins/Unsplash
Reports that Victoria Police are issuing anti-association orders to “youth gang members” has sparked fresh debate about how to best deal with youth gang violence in Australia. These orders have previously been used to reduce the presence of outlaw motorcycle “bikies” and are an attempt to prevent prospective harm. While such measures may temporarily address public calls for tougher crime control, there have been significant criticisms of association laws in Australia and internationally.