Inspector's Healthy Centre Review of Bimberi released

The first Healthy Centre Review of Bimberi Youth Justice Centre (Bimberi) has found that, overall, Bimberi performed well over the four areas in which they were assessed- safety, respect and dignity, purposeful activity, and rehabilitation and preparation for release.

The ACT Inspector of Correctional Services, Neil McAllister, presented the review for tabling in the ACT Legislative Assembly today. The review makes 27 recommendations.

“The small number of young detainees in Bimberi presents unique challenges, but also great opportunities,” Mr McAllister said.

“The review team saw some excellent examples of Bimberi taking individualised approaches to the care and management of young detainees, including in positive interactions between staff members and young detainees.”

However, one challenge caused by small numbers is accommodation placement.

“While onsite at Bimberi, there was a young detainee being housed in an accommodation unit by themselves.”

“While we believe that this was being managed appropriately by Bimberi, there is no notified policy that sets out what safeguards are in place to minimise the negative effects separation from peers can have on a young detainee.”

The Inspector has also recommended the immediate removal of a CCTV camera that has the potential to view a young detainee unclothed while being strip searched, changing clothes or showering.

The information sharing and cooperation between the three Directorates working at Bimberi was an issue by multiple sources. This is impacting on young detainees receiving consistent and tailored care and support in education, health care and day-to-day care.

Another area of concern was throughcare. In 2019, the ACT Human Rights Commission recommended that Bimberi implement a systemic program of throughcare at Bimberi.

“There is no throughcare program available at Bimberi and we have recommended urgent action be taken on implementing the ACT Human Rights Commission’s recommendation.”

“Throughcare is an important way to prepare young detainees to re-enter the community and if done properly, can reduce the likelihood of them returning to Bimberi.”

A central part of this review was speaking to young detainees about their experience at Bimberi. The Inspector thanks the 12 young detainees who shared their experiences through interviews with the review team.

The Inspector also thanks the Community Services Directorate for their cooperation, and all the staff and community organisations who provided valuable input to this review.

The Inspector has requested that, after responding to the recommendations, the ACT Government provide an update to the Inspector on the implementation of agreed recommendations every six months.

The full report can be found here.