Leaders urge swift rollout of youth crime intervention program trial in Geraldton amid rising concerns

An early intervention program designed to steer at-risk children away from crime is set to be trialled in Geraldton. But while planning is still under way, a Geraldton MP is calling for its swift rollout amid growing concerns over youth offending. The Cook Government’s On Track to Thrive initiative is a $7.8 million pilot program targeting children aged five to nine who exhibit offending behaviours but fall below the minimum age of criminal responsibility. The program aims to offer early intervention pathways to prevent further behavioural escalation. The pilot will be trialled in Geraldton and Perth, with the goal of engaging vulnerable children through co-ordinated community services before they become entrenched in criminal activity. The Department of Justice said the program would focus on providing support, rather than punishment, by working with local service providers and other government agencies to develop tailored intervention strategies. “We are pleased to confirm $7.8m for the On Track to Thrive program was committed in the 2025–26 State Budget,” a Department of Justice spokesperson said. “With funding provided to the Department of Justice on July 1, it is currently undertaking important community consultation and is developing the program in co-operation with other government agencies and local service providers. “On Track to Thrive will be operating in the coming months.” With no definitive start date, Geraldton MLA Kirrilee Warr urged the Government to fast-track youth diversion programs, saying the need in the Mid West was urgent. “Crime was a massive talking point in Geraldton, and it was one of my highest priorities heading into the election,” Ms Warr said. “There has been funding allocated to programs like Target 120 and On Track to Thrive, which we hope will have great impact here. However, the message from the community is clear: now the funding is there, get on with it.” Ms Warr also called for clarity around what intervention pathways would be available and whether the full program commitment would be met. “These programs, if done correctly, could help the community in the long term, but the State Government needs to act swiftly to ensure they have maximum impact,” she said. “The community has asked for action, and I will continue to keep the pressure on to ensure these programs are delivered.”