The Government is defending its position against criticism by the United Nations of a decision to process some 12- and 13-year-olds in the Youth Court rather than the Family Court.
Parliament passed legislation on Thursday that also gives the Youth Court tougher penalties to deal with young offenders, including military style camps for young offenders.
The UN says processing children aged 12 and 13 in the Youth Court is at odds with international obligations.
However, Social Development Minister Paula Bennett says the victims must be considered and the Government is happy to defend its position.
Ms Bennett told Morning Report that military style camps for youth offenders will include behavioural therapy.
