Australian Human Rights Commission expresses concern about conditions at immigration detention facility – JURIST

The Australian Human Rights Commission released a report on Monday outlining concerns about conditions at the Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Center in Northam, Western Australia. The report highlights issues related to drug trafficking, inadequate healthcare services and the overall well-being of inmates and staff.

According to the report, the Australian Human Rights Commission conducted inspections, interviews and consultations in 2023 to ensure compliance with international obligations as part of its ongoing immigration detention monitoring efforts.

One of the key concerns raised in the report is the increase in behavior commonly associated with the prison system, including drug trafficking, contraband smuggling, bullying, stand-over tactics and violence. These activities pose a serious threat to the safety and well-being of both inmates and staff and require immediate attention.

In addition, the report draws attention to the inadequate provision of health care services in the detention center. Inmates have limited access to emergency care, after-hours medical services, and mental health services. Inadequate access to counseling, rehabilitation, trauma services, and educational programs aimed at reducing substance use further exacerbates the situation.

The report also identifies issues with the infrastructure at the Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Centre, noting that the two low-security complexes are no longer considered fit for purpose. This raises concerns about general living conditions and safety within the facility.

The Migration Act 1958 establishes the mandatory framework for immigration detention in Australia. This legislation gives Australian Border Force officers the power to detain unlawful non-citizens, including those who have arrived without a valid visa, whose visa has been revoked or whose visa has expired.

In December 2023, the Australian government passed new legislation in response to previous Supreme Court rulings that found the indefinite detention of migrants who cannot be extradited to be unlawful. This legislation authorizes the indefinite restraint of migrants for reasons of public safety if there is reasonable suspicion that they continue to pose a threat to the Australian people.

Human rights organizations have long criticized the practice of mandatory immigration policies as a deterrent to asylum seekers. This policy is seen as inconsistent with international standards, including those set out in the 1951 Convention and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees.