Indigenous deaths in custody in Australia hit highest level since 1980
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.
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