WA Premier Roger Cook says the behaviour of the teenager shot dead by police on Saturday night ws the subject of a letter sent to the education minister.Authorities say the youth became radicalised online and is believed to have suffered mental health issues.
" sent a text message to others in the community … many of those people then subsequently contacted police to express their concerns about the elevation in his mood and intentions," Mr Cook said.However, the Premier said police were not able to interfere, as the boy had not committed any crimes. "Within the school, we will have support staff available to assist students, staff and parents," the email read."Young people may want to meet in groups or turn to social media for support and to express their feelings," he said.The premier said the government and police were providing extra support at the high school.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reiterated that sentiment and said WA Police were taking a considered approach.When questioned about whether the definition of terrorism should be changed to politically motivated rather than religiously motivated, Mr Albanese said "it's the right time to back our police".