MELVILLE council is offering youth outreach for children as young as 10 years old who risk falling through the cracks of WA’s justice system.
The City has teamed up with PCYC to support vulnerable youngsters in Willagee through a year-long outreach-first approach.
The age of criminal responsibility in Western Australia has remained 10 years old for more than a century, despite concerns raised by advocates it’s now out of step with international standards, and a WA Labor state conference vote in 2021 to raise it to 14 years old.
But most early intervention services are designed for children aged 12 and over, creating a gap in support for younger children who may already be at risk.
Melville has followed neighbouring Cockburn’s leading example of lowering this bar and allowing vulnerable children from age 10 to receive support and help through its outreach services.
Melville’s program involves a Fremantle PCYC caseworker being assigned to a young person and visiting them where they are most comfortable, supporting them with schooling and helping them stay engaged in education and their personal development.
PCYC WA program lead Sal Cleveray said the approach was designed to reduce barriers, encourage engagement and allow support to be shaped around the young person, rather than requiring them to attend a service hub.
“Case management can look different for every young person,” Ms Cleveray said.
“For some it’s about housing, employment or getting a driver’s licence. For others it’s about building confidence, routine, or positive peer connections.”
Under the model, referrals are channelled through the Willagee Community Centre and connected services, including schools and community members. Young people can also refer themselves.
Each case is discussed collaboratively in fortnightly meetings between PCYC and local staff, with consent-based intake ensuring support is tailored and transparent.
One caseworker currently supports a small caseload of around seven young people locally, with capacity expected to grow to approximately 15 as the pilot develops.
The program sits alongside existing drop-in services already operating in the Willagee centre, which provides food, recreation, and general support.
Funded through a Department of Justice grant, the program will run through to March 2027, embedding a single dedicated caseworker within the Willagee youth network.
by ISLA TOMLINSON