Roger Jaensch, Minister for Education, Children and Youth,
The Tasmanian Liberal government is committed to closing the Ashley Youth Detention Centre and establishing two new facilities – one in the North and one in the South - as part of reforming the Youth Justice System.
That is why this year's Budget will include an allocation of $40 million to ensure work can commence as soon as design work is completed and suitable sites are confirmed.
Education will be an important focus of these facilities, ensuring young people can continue learning during their detention and linking them with longer-term educational, vocational and other supports as they transition back into the community.
Our strong focus on education for young people in contact with the Youth Justice System will be supported by our new, integrated Department for Education, Children and Youth which will commence operation from 1 July.
The transition plan for reforming the Youth Justice System is well underway with Noetic Group engaged to develop a detailed brief for the new facilities, which will determine the most appropriate settings for a secure and therapeutic environment.
A review of Crown-owned sites that may be suitable for the new facilities is also being conducted and preferred sites will be identified once Noetic Group's brief has been finalised, with the planning and consultation process to follow.
While the closure of the Ashley Youth Detention Centre is an important step in these major reforms, it also presents an opportunity to potentially consider the site as an alternative for the Northern Correctional Facility project.
The Tasmanian Government is engaging with the Meander Valley community on the future use of the current Ashley site.
Finally, we will work with stakeholders to establish a contemporary, nation-leading, therapeutic approach, across the Youth Justice System, to give young Tasmanians the best chance to lead positive and successful lives.
