The CLP Government has ramped up action on the Corrections crisis, with more than 60 prisoners transferred to the newly-operational Berrimah Correctional Centre, and an additional 50 prisoners preparing to relocate from Holtze.
Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said the transfers come as prisoner numbers climb to 2,497, highlighting significant pressures on the Corrections system but also the government's commitment to keeping criminals off the streets.
"The reopening of Berrimah Correctional Centre is a key part of our Corrections Infrastructure Masterplan, which is delivering much-needed additional capacity to manage this crisis," Minister Maley said.
"Contractors, tradies, and prisoner worker parties will continue working through Christmas to fast-track construction and prepare the facility for the next transfer of prisoners."
Minister Maley said the CLP Government is focused on doing whatever is necessary to protect Territorians and restore community safety.
"We make no apologies for keeping criminals off the streets. Our government inherited a crime crisis and a broken Corrections system, and we are doing what needs to be done to protect Territorians and ensure that violence, crime, and harm are met with real consequences," he said.
"The CLP Government's Corrections Infrastructure Masterplan is progressing, and where we can fast-track projects, we are doing so. But we won't compromise the safety of our corrections officers, staff or prisoners."
The plan includes:
Capacity for 200 male prisoners at Berrimah by March.Repurposing of the Alice Springs youth detention facility into a women's prison.130 beds for male prisoners will become available at Alice Springs Correctional Centre once the 96-bed modular sector is operational and the female sector is relocated.Developing two new work camps in Darwin (150 beds) and Katherine (50 beds).Construction of a new 150-bed multi-classification women's prison at Holtze by September 2028.New youth justice boot camp and bail facilities in Katherine and Tennant Creek.Alice Springs Paperbark facility repurposed for up to 16-bed youth boot camp and bail facility.
"I thank everyone working across corrections, law enforcement, and the courts who will continue their efforts over the holiday period. We appreciate their resilience and dedication, particularly in such challenging circumstances."
"Your hard work doesn't go unnoticed, and we, along with all Territorians, are grateful for your ongoing commitment to our community's safety," said Minister Maley.
