Police have issued a blunt warning to any young people considering treating one of the country’s most popular tourist islands as a party hotspot this summer: step out of line and “you will face the consequences of your actions.”
Authorities are rolling out a significantly boosted, highly visible police presence across Rottnest Island as holiday crowds surge, aiming to deter the kind of unruly, booze-fuelled behaviour that marred last year’s season.
The warning comes after 2024’s chaotic “junior-leavers” event on the island, when around 400 teenagers, many in Year 11 or younger, descended unsupervised.
Alcohol-fuelled antics quickly escalated, with reports of assaults, intimidation, and widespread disruption to other visitors.
Police were forced to declare the gathering “out of control”, deploying riot squad officers, night-vision-equipped teams, and air support to restore order.
Several juveniles were taken into protective custody, while 55 received eviction notices.
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Rottnest Island is becoming increasingly popular with school leavers. Source: Getty
Police say the junior-leavers event had become an escalating issue over the past three years, with 2024 marking the most serious yet.
One adult man was allegedly bashed last year for asking drunken teens not to abuse his nine-year-old daughter.
This year, police say they’re not interested in seeing a repeat of the behaviour.
Blunt message for young leavers from police
Extra officers, backed by the State Operations Command Centre, will monitor incidents in real time and move quickly on anything that threatens safety or disrupts families trying to enjoy the island.
Sergeant Michael Wear, Officer in Charge at Rottnest Police Station, said police will be watching on and acting fast.
“We want everyone to feel safe on Rottnest Island,” he said.
“Those who think they can create disorder will be met with firm enforcement — our officers are prepared and will take swift action to keep Rottnest a safe place for everyone to enjoy.”
Wear called on “parents to take responsibility for their children” and ensure they are not engaging in violent or antisocial behaviour that puts themselves or others at risk.
With “junior leavers” approaching, the state’s police minister is also backing the crackdown.
Last year, 55 young people were booted from the island and this year, police aren’t taking any chances. Source: WA Police
“Parents must play an active role in ensuring their children understand the importance of responsible behaviour, so I urge them to remind their children before they travel to Rottnest Island that their actions have consequences,” Police Minister Reece Whitby said.
“The increased police presence sends a clear message that anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated, specifically during ‘junior leavers’, and officers will be highly visible to ensure the safety of all people on the island.”
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