‘Alarming’ staff assault numbers recorded in Don Dale Youth Detention Centre
Shocking new data shows how many assaults on youth justice officers by detainees have occurred in the last three months.
Northern Territory
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MORE than 80 assaults on youth justice officers by detainees have been recorded at the Don Dale Youth Detention Centre over three months, shocking new data shows.
In response to written questions from the CLP, Territory Families Minister Kate Worden’s office confirmed there were 83 incidents involving young people assaulting youth justice officers from January 1 to April 9.
Seventeen of these assaults were reported to have resulted in an injury, while the remaining 66 resulted in no injury.
“Any behaviour like this against our youth justice officers and frontline staff is unacceptable and not tolerated,” she said.
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The CLP’s member for Braitling, Joshua Burgoyne, who submitted the questions, said he found the number of assaults alarming.
Ms Worden was also asked to provide more detail in her written answers about the support offered to staff who are assaulted at Don Dale.
“Youth justice officers are offered a number of supports which include counselling services through the Employee Assistance Program and Employee Assistance Service Australia.
Additionally, youth justice officers are encouraged to report the incident to Northern Territory Police for investigation,” her written answer said.
“Following an incident and prior to return to normal duties, youth justice officers who have been injured are placed on a return-to-work plan which may involve taking non-client-focused roles within the centre, including gatehouse duties, communications, visitor reception and administrative roles until they are comfortable to return to normal client focused roles.”
Ms Worden’s written answers also stated that youth justice officers were permitted to use force in any instances where they believed there was “immediate danger” to anyone in the detention centre, including themselves, their colleagues or other detainees”.
“Additionally, use of force is permitted to prevent a serious threat to the safety and security of the detention centre,” her written answer said.
Originally published as ‘Alarming’ staff assault numbers recorded in Don Dale Youth Detention Centre
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