Expressions of Interest are now open for members of the On Track to Thrive Expert Reference Group (ERG) – a key body in the new pilot program aimed at breaking cycles of disadvantage and preventing contact with the criminal justice system.
The ERG will play a key role in shaping practical, culturally safe pathways that give children and families the support they need to succeed. It has a role in ensuring the program is community-centred, recognising that early intervention works best when it respects local culture, knowledge and the strengths of families.
On Track to Thrive will respond to negative behaviours among five- to nine-year-old children who may be at risk of later entering and becoming entrenched in the criminal justice system.
The ERG is intended to integrate cultural expertise and other expert knowledge to inform decision-making and strengthen program delivery. Operating at grassroots, program-guidance level, the ERG will:
- assess referrals to determine eligibility for the program
- provide advice to inform the way services are provided to children and their families
- facilitate culturally responsive, place-based service delivery
- monitor and provide oversight of the program framework to identify areas for continuous improvement.
Operations of the ERG will be underpinned by Guiding Principles including recognition that families are experts in their own lives; cultural safety; prevention over punishment; relational and trauma-transformative practice, intersectional equity and integrated, wraparound support.
Members of the ERG will be remunerated for their participation, recognising the time and expertise they will be contributing to the program.
ERG Member Assessment Criteria
Expressions of Interest are sought from individuals with a range of relevant qualifications, knowledge and/or experience including (but not limited to):
- criminology
- disability
- education
- infant/child health and wellbeing
- occupational therapy
- paediatrics
- psychology
- social work – including youth work
- working with Aboriginal children and young people
- working with culturally and linguistically diverse children and young people
- other qualifications, knowledge or experience or membership of an organisation, relevant to the exercising functions of the ERG.
Aboriginal people and those with cultural knowledge and expertise are strongly encouraged to apply, as are people with strong connections to Armadale and Geraldton, whose on-the-ground experience can help ensure the program is responsive to the unique circumstances of each community.
How to apply
To express your interest, please apply by completing the online form below. You will be required to attach your Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a cover letter outlining your relevant knowledge or experience, detail of personal and professional alignment with the On Track to Thrive Guiding Principles and why you would like to participate in the ERG.
Please advise if you have been previously appointed to, or are currently sitting on, any Government boards and/or committees, please provide details in your cover letter.
Shortlisted members may be approached to provide additional documentation.
Expression of Interest close at 5.00 pm Friday 16 January 2026
If you require further information regarding the ERG, email to JusticeReformProjects@justice.wa.gov.au.
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