The anti-youth crime On Track To Thrive program is about giving troubled youth the best possible start in life, according to Attorney General Tony Buti.
Mr Buti and two of the program’s clinical nurses spoke to The Examiner about the initiative’s rollout in the Armadale area.
The $7.8 million undertaking is targeting children from Armadale and Geraldton between ages five to nine who show early signs of antisocial behaviour. Those aged 10 or 11 may also be considered. After being referred by the WA Police Force, they will receive voluntary, hands-on support in health, home life and education. The initiative is primarily geared towards support for indigenous children, however, those of other backgrounds will be eligible too.
“It’s important that we give these children, who are likely struggling with education and day to day life, hope for the future,” said Mr Buti.
“It’s quite clear that if you intervene early with wraparound services for the children and their families, that will give them the best possible chance in life. There’s empirical evidence which quite clearly shows that intervention and support programmes for young people provide them the best opportunities to ensure that they can have a good life.”
Mr Buti emphasised the role health issues can play in the development of antisocial traits.
“We’re factoring in health checks because there is evidence that shows that some of these kids, who are suffering from health problems, are more likely to develop these undesirable behaviours.
“Also, outside of healthcare and school support, what we’re trying to do is actually send a clear message to these children, and their families, that the government and society more broadly truly care about them.”
Twenty-five places in the program have been set aside in Armadale and Geraldton respectively. As of 10 July, approximately 13 to 15 had been recommended by the program’s Expert Reference Group in Armadale. Once a child has received a recommendation, consent is sought from the child’s family through a meeting with a local Indigenous Corporation.
Eight further children are in negotiations and three are currently integrated into the program in the Armadale area.
When asked about the standout developments, Mr Buti said there is more work to be done.
“It’s in the early stages, but the feedback that I’ve heard is that in the school situation the kids have become more engaged and their attendance at school is greater,” he said.
“It’s revolutionary, really. This is the first time this has been done in Australia. Governments are often criticised for being short term, but I’m incredibly confident that this is a program that’s going to show great results in the long term, as the investment has been put into the children at this stage for the long-term improvement of their life trajectory.”
