WA Premier Says Resource Shortages Not Behind Gaps in GPS Monitoring of DV Offenders
WA Premier Roger Cook says he has not been advised that staffing shortages are to blame for failures in GPS monitoring of alleged repeat domestic violence offenders, despite the Department of Justice actively recruiting for roles to support the system.
Under state laws introduced in June 2024, some alleged perpetrators of family and domestic violence — particularly repeat offenders or those subject to restraining orders — must wear electronic ankle bracelets as a condition of bail or early release from prison.
However, at least two alleged offenders were released on bail without electronic monitoring in regional WA over the past week, sparking concerns over gaps in the system’s coverage outside of Per
Premier Cook pointed to “technical limitations” of the monitoring system, especially in remote areas, but would not confirm whether a lack of staffing was a contributing factor.
“I haven’t been advised that it’s a lack of resources,” Mr Cook said. “I have been advised that there are limitations to the electronic monitoring system, particularly in regional WA.”
The Department of Justice has since advertised for Electronic Monitoring Officers, noting the positions could be used for fixed-term and permanent contracts — suggesting a need for increased capacity.
Regional Shortfalls Highlighted in Court
In a bail hearing last week in Bunbury, the Department of Justice admitted it was “not feasible” to manage GPS monitoring outside the Perth metropolitan area. The accused was granted bail without the device but was ordered to avoid contact with the alleged victim.
A second similar case was reported in the Great Southern region.
Opposition Slams “Broken” System
WA Liberal spokesperson for corrective services Adam Hort criticised the government’s inability to deliver on its own laws, calling it unacceptable that high-risk offenders are being released without mandated tracking devices.
“Victim-survivors deserve better than a monitoring system that falls over the moment they live outside of Perth,” Mr Hort said.
“If the Cook Labor government is going to introduce laws mandating electronic monitoring for serious offenders, they need to make sure the system works in every part of the state — not just in Perth.”
Government Urges Patience with New Laws
Premier Cook defended the rollout, stating both courts and the Department of Justice are still “getting used to” the new laws and technologies.
“It is an important new reform to keep people safe,” he said.
He added that while GPS monitoring is an important tool, it’s not the only option available to judicial officers. Other conditions such as banning orders, regular police reporting, and surrendering passports can also help protect victim-survivors.
