The State Government has set formal protocols for its agencies to share vital information following a number of confronting allegations about school-aged sex offenders.
There is now an obligation for the Western Australia Police Force and the departments of Education, Communities, and Justice to immediately work together to protect all students.
When made aware by WA Police, agencies will meet to examine all possible risk factors of the alleged offender attending a public school.
The most appropriate education program, as well as clinical services, for the alleged offender would then be decided with the best interests of all students in mind. This could mean the student could be removed from a school temporarily or permanently while continuing their education.
The agencies have also agreed the way the alleged offender’s education is provided would be continually reviewed.
Catholic and Independent schools have also been part of the discussions and have similar case management plans in place. The notification process is currently being finalised.