Friday 31st October 2025
In light of recent reports that more than 20 children have been arrested across the East Kimberley, YACWA reaffirms the importance of continued investment in community-led, place-based initiatives that support children and young people to thrive.
Earlier this week, it was confirmed 29 children – some as young as 10 years old – had been arrested in relation to several incidents in the region. YACWA recognises many of the challenges facing young people are deeply rooted in socio-economic disadvantage, and solutions must focus on long-term investment in education and wellbeing.
YACWA Interim CEO, Ms Kylie Wallace, said evidence shows community-led approaches make a lasting difference.
“When children and young people are supported through strong and connected communities, they are far less likely to engage with the justice system. Our focus must remain on prevention and early intervention – giving young people every opportunity to grow up safe, healthy, and hopeful for their futures.”
While these incidents have drawn national attention, it is important to recognise the broader context: offending amongst 10- to 17-year-olds across Western Australia has decreased in recent years. There are many positive examples of community and government working together to create safer environments for young people.
YACWA welcomes the comments from the Police Minister Hon. Reece Whitby acknowledging children should not be part of the justice system and supports ongoing efforts to ensure evidence-based responses that work with communities to reduce youth offending.
YACWA supports the principles outlined in Social Reinvestment WA’s Blueprint for a Better Future, which calls for sustained government investment in prevention and early intervention initiatives that are designed and led by local communities. These proven, place-based approaches, developed by people who best understand their communities’ needs, are essential to improving outcomes for children and young people.
“We know what works,” Ms Wallace said. “It’s about continuing to invest in the programs and partnerships that already show positive results – those that are grounded in community leadership and focus on wellbeing.”
YACWA continues to advocate for a whole-of-government approach that addresses the underlying causes of young people’s engagement with the justice system, and promotes long-term, sustainable outcomes for children and families across the Kimberley.
For more information, please contact:
Adelaide Williams (she/her)
Engagement Coordinator
(08) 9227 5440 / 0499 443 741
adelaide@yacwa.org.au
