Prisoners in Western Australia are living in ‘cruel, inhuman or degrading’ conditions, report warns
Summary
A report has found that prisoners in Western Australia are living in overcrowded and unsafe conditions that may be cruel and degrading. The state’s prison system is struggling with growing inmate numbers and staff shortages, leading to limited prisoner services and increased risks to safety and wellbeing.Key Facts
- Western Australia's prisons are overcrowded, with some prisoners sleeping on mattresses on the floor.
- The state’s prison inspector, Eamon Ryan, described conditions as “cruel, inhuman or degrading.”
- Prison populations grew by 37% over three years, putting strain on facilities and staff.
- Staff shortages have caused frequent lockdowns, reduced family visits, and limited access to basic services.
- The prisons Hakea, Melaleuca, and Casuarina accounted for 60% of self-harm incidents reported.
- Unsafe conditions increase the risk of serious harm and deaths in custody.
- The report compares current problems to warning signs before a 2018 prison riot in WA.
- The government has been urged to commit funding and reforms to fix the prison system.
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