According to the Summary Offences Act, who is responsible for the actions of minors carrying knives?

Under the Summary Offences Act in New South Wales, the responsibility for the actions of minors carrying knives primarily falls upon the parents or guardians. This legal framework recognizes that adults have a duty to supervise and control the behavior of minors in their care. When a minor carries a knife, it reflects not only on the child's choices but also on the level of guidance and oversight provided by their guardians.

This provision serves to enforce accountability among parents or guardians, ensuring they understand the importance of instilling proper values and safety practices in their children. The law acknowledges that parents are typically in the best position to influence their child's behavior and are thus held responsible for any unlawful actions taken by their children.

In contrast, the other options do not hold the same level of accountability. A child, due to their age and understanding, is often viewed through the lens of needing guidance rather than direct culpability. Similarly, a store selling the knife operates under commercial regulations and does not carry legal responsibility for how a minor uses a product after purchase. Lastly, while law enforcement plays a role in addressing crimes and maintaining public safety, they are not accountable for a minor's conduct in such scenarios. Thus, the law rightly places the burden of responsibility on parents or guardians.