ABC News Online:
The parents of young offenders and truants may be forced to undergo classes in parenting skills under a new plan by the Western Australian Government.
The program would be based on a similar scheme successfully operating in the United Kingdom.
Parents would first be given the opportunity to take the classes voluntarily, but as a last resort the courts will have the power to issue a parental responsibility order.
A discussion paper in the issue will be released in January, with legislation to follow later in the year.
Premier Geoff Gallop says the parental programs will work hand-in-hand with existing programs for young offenders.
"Parental responsibility is a key factor in the upbringing of youngsters and all too often we find that the government programs we initiate to help youngsters are thwarted by the fact that the parents of those youngsters are either unable or unwilling to carry out their duties," he said.
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