Aboriginal youth are overrepresented in the South Australian juvenile justice system in relation to their population numbers. In addition, the system has failed these young offenders at all levels. One reason for this problem is discrimination against the aboriginal youth and lack of access to the diversionary programs for which the South Australian system has gained worldwide recognition. The aboriginal youth receive more severe penalties than nonaboriginal youth, especially sentencing to detention. These youth are expected to fit into the mainstream services for young offenders without consideration being given for the special cultural needs of the aborigines. In order to improve the situation, the South Australian Department of Community Welfare has focused on reducing the number of aboriginal youths in juvenile institutions. Community service orders use members of the aboriginal community to supervise the youth in various projects. Additional preventive strategies include the warrants default programs, bail supervision, intensive neighborhood care, intensive personal supervision, an aboriginal youth team, and vocational and employment training. 4 references