The McGowan Labor Government is investing in a new strategy to improve youth justice outcomes in the Kimberley region, in partnership with community organisations and government agencies.
The aim of the $900,000 strategy is to develop initiatives that deliver more remand and sentencing options, preventative programs to keep youth out of the justice system, and more educational and training opportunities.
Importantly, the strategy will involve community partners to co-design community-based youth residential programs as an alternative to detention along with other services aimed at diversion.
These initiatives will be delivered across the region with a number of agencies including the departments of Justice, Communities, and Education; and the Western Australia Police Force.
For more 2019-20 State Budget information, visit https://www.ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au
As stated by Corrective Services Minister Francis Logan:
“Managing youth who are involved with the justice system requires a collaborative approach with not just government agencies, but also community organisations.
“This strategy aims to co-design initiatives that will keep juveniles on country if they offend, but also improve efforts at diversion.
“I have been to the region on many occasions and met with the Youth Justice teams in Broome and Kununurra who are doing great work in managing some of the State’s most challenging young people.
“This strategy will continue their good work, but bring together community organisations and government agencies to develop initiatives that aim to address issues that are unique to the region and the individuals.”
As stated by Treasurer and Aboriginal Affairs Minister Ben Wyatt:
“This funding is aimed at driving an urgently needed dialogue between government, community groups and the Shires.
“The solution to these issues come from a shared responsibility and we need to work on a common agreed outcome for each unique location, which comes with its own challenges and circumstances.
“I want to see us tap into the strong social capital that exists in every Aboriginal community to achieve better results.”
As stated by Kimberley MLA Josie Farrer:
“It is critical that we acknowledge cultural authority as the centrepiece of solving these issues on a local level.
“I am very pleased to see funding which should help see Native Title Corporations and other Aboriginal culturally recognised bodies brought into the dialogue, as these groups have a significant responsibility given the role they play in their communities.”
