Western Australia's Premier Roger Cook has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to address the escalating youth crime crisis in the remote Kimberley town of Kununurra, focusing on early intervention and community engagement.
The new approach comes amid growing concerns about young people roaming the streets and engaging in criminal activities in the far-north community. Premier Cook emphasised that keeping children "safe, fed, and busy" forms the cornerstone of the government's response.
Shifting from Reaction to Prevention
"We need to move beyond simply reacting to crime and focus on preventing it from happening in the first place," Premier Cook stated during his visit to the region. The strategy marks a significant shift in how the WA government approaches youth justice in remote communities.
The plan includes expanding existing programs and developing new initiatives that provide structured activities, educational support, and essential services for at-risk youth during critical after-school hours and holiday periods.
Community-Based Solutions
Key elements of the strategy include:
- Extended hours and expanded capacity for youth centres and recreational facilities
- Nutrition programs ensuring children have access to regular meals
- Employment pathways and skills development opportunities for teenagers
- Strengthened partnerships with local Indigenous organisations
- Increased support for families struggling with complex social issues
Local community leaders have welcomed the government's commitment to addressing the root causes of youth disengagement rather than relying solely on law enforcement responses.
Broader Kimberley Concerns
The intervention in Kununurra forms part of a broader effort to tackle social challenges across the Kimberley region. Community advocates have long argued that inadequate services and limited opportunities for young people contribute significantly to anti-social behaviour patterns.
Premier Cook acknowledged that sustainable solutions require ongoing investment in remote communities and collaboration with traditional owners and local service providers.
The success of these early intervention measures will be closely monitored as the government seeks to balance immediate community safety concerns with long-term strategies for youth development in regional Western Australia.
