NCJ Number
180151
Date Published
1999
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper presents a brief analysis of the quality, reliability, and content of research and currently available statistics on ethnicity and crime in Australia and suggests methods for improving knowledge of the relationship between ethnicity and crime.
Abstract
Criminological literature over the past several decades shows socioeconomic disadvantage and disorganized communities substantially contribute to neighborhood crime problems. The literature also indicates new immigrants from some source countries may suffer more than others. Official statistics not only from Australia but also from Europe, North America, and New Zealand show members of some migrant groups are arrested, convicted, and imprisoned at a disproportionately high rate. In particular, segments of the population and the media in Australia have expressed concern in recent years over the participation of members of ethnic groups in crime. Research demonstrates the important role of culture, language, psychological strain, and community support in the settlement process in a new country. Statistics on offenders and prisoners in Australia revealed a large proportion of alleged offenders, 75 percent in 1993-1994 and 77 percent in 1996-1997, were Australian-born. According to 26 countries of birth, 14 showed increases in the number of alleged offenders. Substantial increases were noted for those born in Hungary, Fiji, Vietnam, Poland, and Romania. Substantial decreases were noted for those born in Ireland, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. Between 1983 and 1997, prisoners born in Vietnam displayed the largest percentage increase in number. Recommendations address the need for further study of the ethnicity-crime relationship and how to prevent the involvement of members of ethnic groups in crime. 9 references and 3 tables