On Track to Thrive is a pilot program aimed at stepping in early where children aged from five to nine may be at risk of progressing to the criminal justice system.

At present these children receive no response in relation to offending behaviours because they are under the minimum age of criminal responsibility, and fall outside the scope of the criminal justice system.

Attorney General Dr Tony Buti said the program presents a great opportunity for interested parties to contribute to an important initiative aimed at giving at-risk children the best possible future and making the state’s communities safer.

“We’re looking for passionate individuals with expertise in areas like child health and wellbeing, psychology, paediatrics, criminology, education, and social work, as well as experience working with Aboriginal and culturally diverse communities,” Buti said.

“We are also looking to include people with connections to Armadale or Geraldton to ensure the program is responsive to the unique circumstances of each community.”

Expressions of interest are being sought for people to join an expert reference group (ERG) that will provide advice, support and oversight for the program.

Data from WA Police indicates that more than half of the most prolific young offenders in WA first come to the attention of the police between the ages of five and nine years old.

The Government says programs that intervene early are effective in addressing the risk factors associated with offending.

Premier Roger Cook said initiatives such as On Track to Thrive are specifically aimed at preventing vulnerable young Western Australians from entering and becoming entrenched in the criminal justice system.

"Our Government agencies will work together to ensure that every opportunity is taken to intervene in the trajectory of children and young people who are coming into contact with police and the criminal justice system,” Cook said.

"Without a targeted multi-agency response, these children are on track to enter the criminal justice system, hence a culturally appropriate and targeted inter-agency response is essential to change the pathway for these young people."

On Track to Thrive will provide support for children and their families to reduce the risk factors that can lead to offending.

Under the program, children will be referred to tailored and intensive support services focused on their health, home life and education.

On Track to Thrive is being piloted in Armadale and Geraldton from early 2026, with the program tailored to reflect the unique needs and strengths of each community.

The ERG is a non-statutory, non-judicial committee of experts. Its role is to determine the eligibility of children referred to the program and recommend services and supports.

The group will provide trauma informed and culturally responsive oversight of the program. It will also provide advice on future enhancements of the program.

Buti said Aboriginal people are strongly encouraged to apply as are people with close connections to Armadale or Geraldton.

Expressions of Interest to join the ERG are open until the close of business on January 16.

Click here for more information and to apply to be prt of the ERG.