News
8 March, 2024
What price a prison?
The announcement of a new Woodford-based youth detention centre has stirred mixed feelings from the community, with many residents questioning the cost of the facility.
One of the main points of criticism has been the amount of money this new facility will cost, with many arguing the almost $680 million could and should be spent on other matters, including housing, roads and education.
“What an absolute joke and a disgusting waste of money that should of been spent on health, roads or housing for the homeless,” Kate Harris said.
“No money for housing normal folk apparently but $680 million to house 80 little arseholes, what a joke,” Denise Hunter wrote.
Another point of criticism has been the amenities, with some residents thinking the proposed centre is too luxurious, comparing it to a resort rather than a detention centre, given the facility will include more home-like accommodation units, consultation and treatment rooms, multi-purpose spaces for education, skills development and training, areas for physical exercise, green spaces, and spaces for cultural connection.
“Needed but MUCH too small and should be without all the resort additions,” Rick Putra said.
“Looks like a health retreat not a detention centre,” Helen Nalder wrote.
Other points raised were the additional housing pressures brought on by families of the detainees moving to the area, the perceived lack of punishment on youth off enders and the negative image this will bring to the area.
Not all response has been negative, however, with some residents acknowledging the benefits this new centre will bring, including local employment and business opportunities, as well as a financial boost from the extra staff and services.
Other comments also encouraged the build, calling it “much needed” or arguing youth criminals still deserve to be given a chance and offered help by the state.
