Labor introduces bill for independent inspector to improve harm prevention at state detention centres

The Queensland government has tabled a Bill that would see an independent inspector oversee detention centres around the state to “ensure accountability and transparency”.

Harm prevention at state detention centres could be improved through implementing an independent inspector, according to the Attorney-General.

The Inspector of Detention Services Bill 2021 was tabled in parliament today by Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman to “ensure accountability and transparency” in the management of Queensland’s detention centres.

“While many of the places of detention have existing accountability and oversight frameworks, there is no one body responsible for the independent oversight of these facilities’ operations through a system of regular inspections,” she said.

Queensland Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman tabled the Bill. Picture: Dan Peled

According to the Bill, the role of the independent Inspector would be held by an officer of the Queensland Ombudsman, and would be focused on the prevention of harm through system reviews, rather than responding to harm through complaints or investigations.

The Inspector would be allowed into any community corrections centre, prison, work camp, watch-house and youth detention centre in the state at any time.

This would include at least every five years at high security facilities and annually at youth detention centres.

Brisbane Correctional Centre at Wolston, will be involved in the inspections from the independent body. Picture: David Clark

Free rein would be given to all areas of the facilities, people and the documents – regardless of confidentiality in some cases.

Under the bill, the Inspector can even have access to detainee’s health records regardless of whether or not they give consent.

Minister for Children and Youth Justice Leanne Linard said the Bill showed the government’s “commitment to promoting human rights”.

While Minister of Police and Corrective Services said the role would support “efforts to promote and uphold the humane treatment and conditions of the people detained”.