Perth: Western Australia's youth justice system is facing ongoing challenges, sparking significant concerns about the lack of return on investment for taxpayers. However, the most alarming aspect is that it is the children within the system who are paying the highest price, as highlighted in a report by ABC News. Photo courtesy: ABC News.

Despite the WA government being the largest employer in the state, with approximately 166,000 employees, there are critical shortcomings within the youth justice sector that have been highlighted by key figures within the system.

Voices from the Frontline
WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch has expressed that the approach to youth crime needs re-evaluation. He emphasizes that police should not be the primary responders to youth-related incidents where there are no immediate threats. Instead, he advocates for the involvement of mental health professionals and child welfare experts to address the underlying issues facing young offenders.

"We want professionals there first," Blanch stated, highlighting that many youth crimes stem from socio-economic disadvantages. "When you have kids who are disadvantaged committing theft, we need to divert them and provide support."

Former Corrective Services Commissioner Mike Reynolds, who was dismissed after the first recorded death in juvenile detention in WA, also underscored the flawed structure of the youth justice system. Reynolds noted that the focus should shift from punitive measures to supportive interventions aimed at helping youth get back on track. "Corrections is a custody-based service. Youth justice isn't supposed to be about custody," he explained, advocating for a more rehabilitative approach.

The True Cost of Neglect
Both Blanch and Reynolds point to a critical misunderstanding within WA's government regarding youth justice. Instead of addressing the root causes, the current system often treats youth crime as a standalone issue. This is a significant oversight, as many of these young individuals are victims of systemic neglect and lack access to vital resources and support.

Children's Commissioner Anne Hollonds emphasized that many youths are criminalized instead of being offered assistance. "When they are stealing food because they are hungry or stealing cars out of boredom, we criminalize them," she remarked. This punitive approach does not make communities safer, which should be the primary goal of the justice system.

A Call for Reform
Despite recent efforts by the government to improve conditions in youth detention facilities—such as allowing young people more time out of their cells and providing access to support programs—much work remains. The tragic death of 16-year-old Cleveland Dodd last year underscored the urgency for reform, as did the recent death of another teenager in custody.

Eamon Ryan, the Inspector of Custodial Services, pointed out that while some positive changes have been made, the focus on detention alone is too late. "Preventative work is much better than trying to fix the problem once it's arisen," he advised. This approach requires early intervention, which can ultimately save taxpayers money by reducing future crime and re-offending rates.

Political Will and Public Awareness
Unfortunately, addressing youth justice issues does not seem to be a priority for political parties, with some members of parliament indicating that there are "no votes in children." This neglect has serious implications, as it perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage and criminalization among the most vulnerable.

The Law Society of WA has called for an independent review of the youth justice system following a second recent suicide in custody. They demand the immediate closure of the problematic Unit 18 at Casuarina Prison and have urged for a trauma-informed approach to reform, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Conclusion
As Western Australia grapples with its youth justice system's complexities, it becomes clear that a shift in strategy is necessary. By prioritizing early intervention and support over punitive measures, the government can not only provide a better future for at-risk children but also alleviate the financial burden on taxpayers.

In a society that values the welfare of its youth, the focus must shift toward ensuring that children receive the support they need before they become entangled in the justice system. The time for meaningful change is now, as every moment of inaction costs the community both financially and morally.