Seven research projects examining ways to improve the criminal justice system in Western Australia are set to share $300,000 under a new grants program.
The funding comes under the inaugural annual round of the WA Office of Crime Statistics and Research (WACSAR) Criminal Justice Research Grant Fund. WACSAR is a division of the Department of Justice that conducts independent criminal justice-related research and analysis.
The WACSAR Advisory Board has chosen high-calibre projects from the University of WA, Edith Cowan University, Curtin University and University of Notre Dame.
Two of the successful projects are exploring issues affecting Aboriginal people – reducing overrepresentation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the justice system through enhanced social and emotional wellbeing, and an evaluation of Aboriginal cultural training and education in the justice sector.
Other research areas include the impact of literacy and numeracy programs on reoffending, women prisoners in WA and non-engagement in treatment by young sex offenders.
For the full list of successful applicants, visit
The Executive Committee of the Advisory Board is chaired by the Director General of the Department of Justice and made up of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of WA, the Commissioner of Police and the Deputy Director of the Australian Institute of Criminology.
The next round of grants will begin later in the year.
As stated by Attorney General John Quigley:
“I’m pleased to see the first of these grant recipients selected and congratulate the successful applicants.
“These research projects were chosen for their potential to make practical contributions to improving the effectiveness of our justice system.
“This annual grant fund will complement the work of WACSAR in understanding and analysing the causes and consequences of crime so we can pursue better outcomes.”
Attorney General’s office – 6552 6800
