Interim Chief Police Officer for the ACT, Andy Hughes and the Acting Commonwealth and Law Enforcement Ombudsman, Dr Vivienne Thom, today released the report of a joint Review of ACT Policing’s Watchhouse operations.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) instigated the Review after concerns were raised about Watchhouse practices in late 2006.
The Review team conducted a robust assessment of every aspect of Watchhouse policies, practices and procedures against best practice both in Australia and overseas. As part of this process, submissions were received from a diverse range of groups, including representatives of government departments, multicultural groups and health professionals.
The report makes 17 wide-ranging recommendations based on ensuring alignment with world’s best practice and international human rights principles on issues such as governance, operating procedures, complaint management, physical conditions and safety of staff and detainees. The Review also proposes further consideration of Watchhouse operations and staffing.
Dr Thom noted that the ACT Watchhouse facilities are in good condition and, in general, Watchhouse staff are dedicated to providing high standards of custodial care to detainees.
“However, the Review identified organisational and cultural deficiencies in many aspects of the Watchhouse’s operations and procedures, and in the current support mechanisms available to both Watchhouse staff and detainees,” Dr Thom said.
Assistant Commissioner Hughes said the Review provided an impartial assessment of current practices and a framework to bring Watchhouse operations in line with international standards.
“By engaging the Ombudsman’s office in the Review, the AFP has ensured a proper and independent investigation into Watchhouse practices,” Assistant Commissioner Hughes said.
“It is also good to receive independent confirmation that the Watchhouse facilities are in good condition and to have the benefits of our electronic surveillance systems noted. However, where deficiencies have been identified, ACT Policing is implementing changes to ensure that Watchhouse operations are of the highest standard.”
Dr Thom and AC Hughes said the Review demonstrated the value of working collaboratively to address areas of concern to the community.
The Review was supervised by a high-level steering committee, which will meet in six months’ time to check on progress in implementing the recommendations.
Contact Details:
AFP National Media: Phone – 02 6275 7100 Email – afpnationalmedia@afp.gov.au
Ombudsman: Phone – Media 02 6276 3759 Email – Media@ombudsman.gov.au
Date of release: 26 June 2007