Supported by a State Government investment of almost $100 million over four years, the model will progressively bring court security and court custody services into the Sheriff's Office, creating dedicated capability within government and reducing reliance on WA Police resources to support court operations in regional Western Australia.
Court security and court custody services play a critical role in the daily operation of courts, ensuring the safety of judicial officers, court staff, service users and the broader community.
The new model announced this week will be rolled out in stages, with the first phase focusing on regional locations where it can deliver the greatest benefit for courts and policing services, including Busselton, Northam, Geraldton, Carnarvon, Karratha, South Hedland, Kununurra and Esperance.
The first two stages of implementation will establish 127 full-time equivalent positions, including 101 regional positions and a further 26 roles to support operational capability and administration.
The reforms are expected to reduce around 45,000 hours of demand on police personnel each year, allowing officers to focus on frontline policing and community safety priorities.
The model will also create employment opportunities in regional justice service hubs including Albany, Bunbury, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie, Karratha and Port Hedland, supporting local workforces while strengthening service delivery across the justice system.
To ensure continuity of service, the existing Court Security and Custodial Services contract will be extended while the Sheriff's Office progressively builds workforce capability and transitions services under the new operating model.
Acting Director General and Corrective Services Commissioner Brad Royce APM said the reforms would establish a stronger, long-term foundation for court operations across Western Australia.
"This is a significant investment in the future of our justice system and will help ensure courts continue to operate safely, reliably and effectively across WA."
"By progressively bringing court security and court custody services into the Sheriff's Office, we are building dedicated capability within government while reducing reliance on police resources for non-core policing activities."
"Importantly, this model will support local employment opportunities in regional communities and help free up police officers to focus on frontline policing and community safety."
As part of the broader reform program, the Department has also released a Request for Tender for a new custodial movements services contract.
The private sector contract will provide for the safe and secure transport of people in custody between prisons, courts, police lock-ups, hospitals and other approved locations, and will expand the scope of current services to include all prisons across Western Australia.
The Department will continue to work closely with WA Police and other stakeholders throughout implementation to ensure a safe and orderly transition of services.
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