The Australian Human Rights Commission recently published a report detailing concerning issues at the Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Centre in Northam, Western Australia. The findings, based on inspections, interviews and consultations carried out through 2023, reveal serious problems in areas such as drug trafficking, inadequate healthcare, and overall welfare of detainees and staff.
In the report, the Commission underscores a disturbing increase in behaviours akin to those witnessed in a prison system, including drug trafficking, circulation of contraband, bullying, and violence. Such activities put at risk the safety and well-being of detainees and staff members alike and require prompt attention.
The study also sheds light on insufficient healthcare provision within the detention centre. This manifests in detainees’ limited access to emergency care, round-the-clock medical services, and mental health support. In addition, there seems to be a lack of counselling, rehabilitation, trauma services, and educational programs tackling substance use.
Problems extend beyond conditions of detention and healthcare provision. According to the report, the facility’s low-security compounds are deteriorating, barely fit for purpose, posing grave concerns about living conditions and overall security in the centre.
As per the Migration Act 1958, Australia’s mandatory immigration detention scheme is in place. This law gives Australian Border Force Officers the power to detain unlawful non-citizens—those who arrived without a valid visa, those whose visas were cancelled, or those whose visas have expired.
In December 2023, the Australian Government enacted new legislation in response to High Court decisions which deemed indefinite detention of migrants that could not be extradited as unlawful. Under the new legislation, migrants can be detained indefinitely on public safety grounds, providing there is reasonable suspicion they still pose a threat.
Many human rights organizations have voiced criticism against mandatory immigration detentions suggested as a method to deter asylum seekers. According to the 1951 Convention and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees, such policies deviate from the international standards of refugee protection.
Original article: JURIST – News.