Tasmanian Government calls for land owners who would like a prison on their land

THE Tasmanian Government is calling for expressions of interest from northern Tasmanian landowners who would like to host a new $270 million prison on their land.

Prisoners at Risdon Prison.

THE Tasmanian Government is calling for expressions of interest from northern Tasmanian landowners who would like to host a new $270 million prison on their land.

The Government promised a new 270 bed prison during the state election campaign.

Attorney-General Elise Archer said invitations for participation would be sent to northern Tasmanian councils, utility companies, the property sector and economic development groups.

“This is a critical milestone in delivering on our plan to increase prison capacity and keep Tasmanians safe,” she said.

Ms Archer said the Department of Justice would continue canvassing potential Crown Land options and work with relevant State and Federal Government agencies to identify any suitable sites that were surplus to government requirements.

Risdon Prison two separate incidents occurred in the one day, a vicious fight in a maximum-security unit of the jail, where six (6) prison officers were injured, and an armed maximum security prisoner took another prisoner hostage in the Tamar Unit, Risdon Prison (gaol) where the violent incidents took place

“This is a core commitment from the Hodgman Liberal Government that will significantly boost jobs and the northern economy,” she said.

She said a multidisciplinary Siting Panel had already been established to guide the identification of a suitable site.

“This Siting Panel will recommend a shortlist of sites for consideration in the months ahead,” she said.

The Department will also conduct a range of community engagement activities, including information sessions.

The 2018 Budget included $169 million to keep Tasmanians safe including $70 million for a new Southern remand centre, the first stage of the northern prison and $7.3 million to redevelop the Ashley Youth Detention Centre near Deloraine.

In January Ms Archer declined to commit to co-locating the new prison with AYDC.

“We will work with local government to identify a site that is fit for purpose that takes into consideration being close to facilities. close to court facilities, transport and of course being able to staff the prison adequately,” she said.

Interested parties can request more information or nominate a potentially suitable site via email: [e-mail]

The EOIs close on November 22, 2018,