Authorities on Rottnest Island are preparing for a significant police operation ahead of the anticipated influx of teenagers for unofficial 'junior leavers' celebrations this December. Guests booked to stay on the island between December 5 and 16, 2025 have been directly warned about potential disruptions.
Police promise swift action against troublemakers
Western Australia Police have issued a stern warning to teenagers planning to mark the end of the school year on the island, stating they will face consequences for any criminal or anti-social acts. This comes after the riot squad was required to intervene during last year's events to manage hundreds of unruly youths.
Rottnest Island officer-in-charge Sergeant Michael Wear emphasised that police are ready to take swift action. "We want everyone to feel safe on Rottnest Island," Sergeant Wear said. "Those who think they can create disorder will be met with firm enforcement."
The police operation will involve an increased visible presence, supported by the State Operations Command Centre for monitoring incidents in real-time.
Lessons from last year's chaos
The heightened security measures are a direct response to the serious incidents that marred the 2024 junior leavers period. Last December, the situation escalated to the point where bottles were thrown at police officers. Authorities issued 55 eviction notices and investigated several assaults, including an attack on a 40-year-old man who was allegedly pushed off his bicycle by a group of teens.
In an email to visitors, the Rottnest Island Authority explicitly stated that the junior leavers gathering is not a sanctioned event. The correspondence alerts guests that they "will see an increased presence of CCTV, rangers, police after-hours officers and security personnel" during their stay.
A call for parental responsibility
Both police and government ministers are urging parents to play a key role in preventing a repeat of last year's havoc. Police Minister Reece Whitby called on parents to have serious conversations with their children about responsible behaviour before any trip to the island.
"Parents must play an active role in ensuring their children understand the importance of responsible behaviour," Minister Whitby stated. He reinforced that the visible police boost sends a clear message that anti-social acts will not be tolerated.
The collective message from authorities is unequivocal: while Rottnest Island remains a premier holiday destination, the safety and enjoyment of all visitors are paramount, and significant resources have been deployed to ensure order during the known high-risk period.
