Lukieda Turner
Team Leader for Community Youth Justice, Department of Corrections.
Born and bred in Alice Springs, I've watched the community grow with so many diverse cultures and backgrounds, and I love seeing the town thrive.
Lukieda Turner is the Team Leader for Community Youth Justice based in Alice Springs, where she works with young people to support positive change and help them stay on track.
For Lukieda, one of the most rewarding parts of her role is the opportunity to work closely with young people, families and communities across Central Australia.
"Born and bred in Alice Springs, I've watched the community grow with so many diverse cultures and backgrounds, and I love seeing the town thrive."
Community Youth Justice Officers work with young people in the community to support them in meeting the conditions of their court orders. This can include electronic monitoring, drug and alcohol testing, curfews, assessments, treatment services and participation in programs designed to help them succeed.
A highlight of the role for Lukieda is travelling to remote communities, including Mutitjulu, Yuendumu and Papunya, where she engages with local stakeholders and learns from different cultures and perspectives.
"I enjoy travelling to remote communities and building relationships with people from different backgrounds. Every day is different, and there are so many opportunities to make a positive impact in a young person's life."
While the work can be challenging at times, Lukieda values being part of a team that helps young people make positive choices for their future.
Outside of work, Lukieda enjoys four-wheel driving, camping and attending local festivals and night markets. For her, living and working in Central Australia offers the chance to build a meaningful career while staying connected to the community she calls home.
Lukieda’s message to those considering a career in youth justice in Alice Springs: “Take the leap, do it if you want to make a change in someone’s life.”
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