Riot Squad Deployed to Rottnest Island as Teen Gatherings Escalate

Police intervened after unsupervised high school students disrupted holidaymakers during 'Juvie Week' celebrations.

Around 400 high school students, mostly from Perth private schools, gathered on Rottnest Island for unsanctioned 'Juvie Week' celebrations, leading to widespread disturbances.
Police, including riot squad officers and the police air wing, were called in to address assaults on holidaymakers and two officers, as well as property damage and intimidation by teens.
Holidaymakers reported feeling unsafe, with some families staying indoors to avoid confrontations with aggressive groups of teenagers roaming the island at night.
Incidents included physical assaults, theft, and attempts to break into private accommodations and hotel facilities, with alcohol cited as a contributing factor to the unrest.
The Rottnest Island Authority faced criticism for inadequate preparation and communication about the recurring 'Juvie Week' issues, which have reportedly grown over the past 15 years.