Three detainees scale Banksia Hill Detention Centre roof
Aerial footage shows damage to parts of the Banksia Hill Detention Centre, including to windows and an air conditioning unit, after three detainees climbed to the roof at Perth's youth detention facility.
Three young detainees climbed the roof of Perth's Banksia Hill Detention Centre on Friday evening. The incident, which occurred almost a year after the last major breach, caused damage to the facility. Aerial footage captured the scene, showing two broken windows, sections of the roof, and an air conditioning unit that had been damaged. One detainee even threw a brick during the ordeal. Other detainees remained on the roof, engaging in conversations and speaking with staff.
The Department of Justice confirmed the presence of three young individuals on the roof, with staff monitoring the situation. They assured the public that there is no risk. Banksia Hill is the state's primary youth detention facility, housing boys and girls aged 10 to 17. In late November of the previous year, at least six detainees had scaled the roof, with three remaining overnight.
Since the last incident, extra fencing has been installed on certain parts of the roof to enhance security. Banksia Hill has faced multiple riots in recent years, with one being described as "a form of terrorism" by the then-premier. The event took place amid ongoing issues in the state's youth justice system, which has largely been resolved.
A new $156 million youth detention facility is currently under construction and is expected to open in 2028. Meanwhile, a $67 million project for upgrades and urgent works at Banksia Hill is expected to be completed this year.
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