Self-harm, serious assaults recorded across immigration detention centres
Conditions at Villawood Immigration Detention Centre have deteriorated since private company Secure Journeys began running the facility, workers say.
Immigration detention centres across Australia have seen a surge in self-harm incidents, serious assaults and weapon possession, according to new data released under freedom of information laws. The Villawood Immigration Detention Centre, in particular, has faced deteriorating conditions since private company Secure Journeys took over its operations.
Workers at the facility claim understaffing has contributed to the rise in incidents, with about 150 fewer staff present than under the previous provider, Serco. The company, which received $2.3 billion in taxpayer funds to oversee Australia's immigration detention centres, has been accused of failing to manage security effectively, leading to concerns about the safety of both detainees and staff.
A recent report by the Commonwealth National Preventive Mechanism highlighted insufficient staffing, drug use, and the presence of shivs as key issues at Villawood. The company stated they have strengthened operational leadership and workforce supervision, but the Union of Shop Stewards and Professional Workers claims increased wages and improved conditions would help attract and retain staff.
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