The State Government has announced its preferred location for a new high-security youth detention facility at the Banksia Hill Juvenile Detention Centre in Canning Vale, which will replace the controversial Unit 18 at Casuarina Prison.
The centre will be designed to accommodate the State’s most high-risk youth detainees and is intended to enhance the current services provided at Banksia Hill, with the site chosen for its proximity to the existing centre, allowing for shared services.
$11.5 million has been allocated by the State Government to complete detailed planning, which will finalise the project’s design and facilitate the commencement of enabling works shortly.
State Corrective Services Minister Paul Papalia said the new youth detention facility will offer specialised therapeutic support to address the unique challenges faced by young detainees.
“Placing a permanent facility right on the doorstep of Banksia Hill will be the best outcome for detainees and staff,” Minister Paul Papalia said.
“It means high-risk individuals will get the support they need in a secure environment while enabling Banksia Hill to operate as intended without disruptions.”
“The centre will be informed by world’s best practice and in a culturally appropriate manner.”
Last year, when the State Government revealed plans to construct a new high-security, therapeutic youth detention facility, Premier Roger Cook said it would transform the youth justice system in Western Australia.
“A new high-security custom-built detention centre will allow the State’s most complex juvenile detainees to receive the therapeutic care and intervention needed,” Premier Cook said.
“It will also allow for the closure of Unit 18 in a sensible and safe manner.”
The chosen site for the new facility at Banksia Hill still requires State and Federal environmental approvals; if approved, part of the existing car park at Banksia Hill will need to be relocated.
