The Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia will receive a one-off funding boost of $975,000 from the State Government, it was announced on Thursday, to support its highly successful Old Ways New Ways youth program.

ALS WA chief executive Wayne Nannup told National Indigenous Times the organisation appreciates "the support from the State Government and the Attorney General's office", and noted the importance of being able to deliver reliability and continuity for clients.

"For a program like Old Ways New Ways and the benefit it provides to young people who are experiencing extraordinary challenges, on-going funding is needed for stability and sustainability," he said.

"We look forward to working with the State Government."

The WA Government is providing the funding with the support of the Legal Contribution Trust.

Old Ways New Ways supports young people to build stronger connections to family, community, culture and education, while reducing the risk of further involvement with the justice system.

Demand for the program has grown since October 2024, with 478 referrals received. There are currently 127 participants in the program and about 50 young people on the waitlist.

The program supports Aboriginal young people aged 10 to 17 who are at risk of, or already in contact with, the justice system. Referrals may be made by WA Police, schools, Youth Justice Services, the courts, other government agencies, families and young people themselves.

The funding will assist the delivery of culturally secure, wraparound services for Aboriginal young people and their families during 2026-27.

Old Ways New Ways is delivered by a consortium comprising the Aboriginal Legal Service WA, Stephen Michael Foundation and Wadjak Northside Aboriginal Corporation.

The program combines case management, mentoring, educational activities, cultural programs, on-Country camps and family support.

Program data shows that, after joining Old Ways New Ways, 87 per cent of participants had a reduction in referrals to the Custody Notification Service for being taken into police custody.

Participants and other stakeholders have also reported improvements in education, wellbeing, family engagement, connection to culture and justice outcomes.

WA Attorney General Tony Buti said on Thursday that Old Ways New Ways "shows what can be achieved when Aboriginal organisations, Elders, families and communities lead the response for young people who need support".

"The program is reaching young people early, helping them reconnect with culture and education, and supporting families before young people become further entrenched in the justice system," Dr Buti said.

"The early results are encouraging, with many participants showing reduced contact with the justice system and stronger engagement with education, wellbeing and culture.

"This funding will help Old Ways New Ways continue its important work with Aboriginal young people and families over the coming year."

Mr Nannup said Old Ways New Ways has "changed the lives of hundreds of young participants" in just over two years, and "made a huge difference to their families and communities".

"It's incredibly heartening to witness the meaningful development and personal growth of participants, many of whom are extremely vulnerable, disadvantaged and disengaged," he said.

"The success of this model proves that justice reinvestment is excelling in reducing recidivism and reshaping the lives of our young people."

ALSWA's core funding comes from Justice Reinvestment grants from the federal government.