Queensland commits to two new youth detention centres

Fraser Barton | May 11, 2023

The Queensland government will build a new youth detention centre in the state’s southeast offering “home-like accommodation” and purpose-built units.

To be located next to an adult correctional centre, the Woodford Correctional Precinct is in its final stages of design. 

The government is also looking to build another youth detention centre in Cairns, with a proposed site still in planning stages.

Queensland has three youth detention centres: the Brisbane Youth Detention Centre and West Moreton Youth Detention Centre, both  in Wacol west of Brisbane, and the Cleveland Youth Detention Centre in Townsville.

The new centres are part of the government’s response to youth crime, and follow a raft of controversial laws introduced this year targeting youth and recidivist offenders.

Youth Justice Minister Leanne Linard says the government is continuing to implement measures aimed at addressing youth crime in the community.

“The Department of Children, Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs continues to work with central government agencies to identify suitable interim detention options that can be brought online quickly should it be needed,” she said in a statement.

“Therapeutic approaches to youth detention have been in operation across many jurisdictions, with evidence showing positive outcomes for young people, including reduced recidivism and higher rates of successful reintegration into communities.”

The government says Queensland needs further youth detention centres as the state’s population grows and existing infrastructure ages.

Both new centres are expected to include “therapeutic design elements” and units purpose-built to encourage young people, staff and stakeholders to work together; consultation and treatment rooms; multipurpose spaces for education, skills development and training; and spaces for cultural connection.