Member for Geraldton, Kirrilee Warr MLA, has called for action regarding youth diversion programs in response to rising youth crime across the region.
The State Budget handed down last month included funding for initiatives to divert young people from the justice system, however Ms Warr said it fell well short of what was needed in communities like Geraldton and called on the State Government to act quickly.
“Crime was a massive talking point in Geraldton, and it was one of my highest priorities heading into the election,” she said.
“There has been funding allocated to programs like Target 120 and On Track to Thrive, which we hope will have great impact here.
“However, the message from the community is clear: now the funding is there, get on with it.”
Target 120 is a program run across the state, targeting young people between the ages of 10 and 14 to reduce the rate of juvenile offending.
Meanwhile, On Track to Thrive is a pilot program set to begin in Geraldton, diverting children under the age of criminal responsibility away from crime.
One of the biggest issues in Geraldton has been crime, and in the lead up to the 2025 State Election, The Nationals WA committed a $140m regional plan to combat crime and overhaul youth justice.
This included developing a state-wide Youth Diversion Strategy and establishing on-country diversion programs in the Kimberley, Pilbara, Gascoyne, Goldfields, and Mid West regions.
Ms Warr asked questions during the budget estimates regarding the continuation of Target 120, including staffing levels, and the future of the program.
Meanwhile, questions were also raised about the On Track to Thrive program, including what pathways will be available, and whether the full commitment would be delivered.
“These programs if done correctly could help the community in the long term, but the State Government needs to act swiftly to ensure these programs have maximum impact,” Ms Warr said.
“The community has asked for action, and I will continue to keep the pressure on to ensure these programs are delivered.”