Summary
New data reveals that the number of Indigenous deaths in custody in Australia is the highest since 1980. Indigenous people make up over a third of prisoners, although they are less than 4% of the population. The report highlights that the main causes of these deaths were self-inflicted and natural causes.
Key Facts
- 33 Indigenous people died in custody in Australia in the past year.
- Indigenous people represent more than one-third of Australia's prison population, despite being less than 4% of the overall population.
- Most Indigenous deaths in custody occurred in prison, with 26 deaths recorded from July last year to June this year.
- The main causes of death were self-inflicted, including hanging, and natural causes.
- New South Wales recorded the most deaths, with nine Indigenous deaths in prison custody.
- A historical inquiry into Indigenous deaths in custody made many recommendations over 30 years ago.
- Since that inquiry, 600 Indigenous people have died in custody, including six in youth detention.
