The Western Australian government is seeking expressions of interest from Aboriginal people across the state to join the Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee for the next term.

WA's justice system, particularly the youth justice system in which Indigenous children are drastically overrepresented, has been plagued with problems including alarming rates of self-harm, deaths in custody, and other health and wellbeing concerns.

Past and present Children's Court Presidents and Inspectors of Custodial Services have been scathing of youth justice in particular in Western Australia, urging fundamental reforms to the system.

Many legal experts and Indigenous community leaders have long called for Indigenous leadership to play a much stronger role in shaping youth justice, and in engaging with rehabilitative and restorative justice approaches to the system more broadly.

The Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee comprises 12 Aboriginal community members connected to 12 diverse regions across WA. The Committee was established in 2021 and members provide cultural advice and guidance to the Department of Justice.

The AJAC reports to the Department's Director General who briefs the Attorney General and the Minister for Corrective Services on justice matters and the committee's work.

Expressions of interest for the 2026 AJAC are being sought from Aboriginal people connected to the following regions: West Kimberley; East Pilbara; Gascoyne; Mid West; Goldfields; North Metropolitan; South West; and Great Southern.

To be considered for membership, candidates must demonstrate a "strong community presence in their nominated region and show a commitment to improving justice outcomes for Aboriginal people across WA".

Attorney General Tony Buti said AJAC has been "instrumental in enhancing stakeholder relationships and deepening the Department's connection with Aboriginal communities".

"By embedding cultural knowledge and lived experience into policy development, AJAC has helped ensure our justice system is more responsive, inclusive, and accountable," Dr Buti said.

"I encourage Aboriginal leaders from across WA to consider applying. Your voice is essential to continuing the progress we've made and drive meaningful change in justice outcomes."

Successful candidates need to attend a minimum of four meetings per calendar year, and comply with the AJAC Terms of Reference and Code of Conduct.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to email [email protected] for further application details.