Page 2652 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 11 August 2015
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This year there was also a strong focus in the estimates hearings on Bimberi and the issues surrounding the youth detention centre. Cause for concern was created earlier this year when allegations of supply of illicit substances within the confines of the centre were brought to light. With the government acknowledging that the facility is running at less than 25 per cent of its built capacity, these circumstances should never have occurred. At a time when Bimberi is running with anywhere from nine to 11 detainees, there is no excuse for some of the types of conduct that we have seen in this facility. The last thing that we on this side of the chamber want is issues which are so readily apparent in the AMC rolling over into our youth corrections facilities. I commend this recommendation by the committee:
… that the ACT Government investigate a policy of random identifiable drug and alcohol testing for staff and detainees at Bimberi Youth Justice Centre.
I believe this is one of many ways in which the government can stem the allegations of drug supply and illicit substance abuse within the facility and ensure the safety of both staff and detainees at the same time.
I have to say that whilst these ministers and this government continue to tell all and sundry what a fantastic job they are doing for Canberrans, it is important to be honest, transparent and, more importantly, take responsibility for their shortfalls and failings. I intend to continue to hold those opposite to account and to push this government to deliver what they promise. As Ms Burch has put it, “We want to aim high.” However, with respect to looking after people in our community with a disability, our Indigenous communities and our youth, it is outcomes and not aspirations that will make a difference. It is outcomes and not aspirations that can be relied upon. That is why it is important that outcomes are the focus.
MR GENTLEMAN (Brindabella—Minister for Planning, Minister for Roads and Parking, Minister for Workplace Safety and Industrial Relations, Minister for Children and Young People and Minister for Ageing) (8.45): Mr Assistant Speaker, as the Minister for Children and Young People, I thank you for the opportunity to speak to the Assembly today and to discuss output class 4.1, which has been renamed “Statutory services—child and youth protection services”.
We are transforming the way we support vulnerable children, young people and their families in Canberra—from the way we work in government to the way we work with families and the way we partner with community organisations. We have carried out a great deal of research and consultation into how, as a community, we can better step up to support those most in need. The 2015-16 ACT budget sees us take further steps in investing in these changes to make real differences to Canberrans.
One of the most significant developments is the integration of Care and Protection Services and Youth Justice Services from 1 July this year to provide a new single statutory service, Child and Youth Protection Services. This change will ensure that children and young people receive the right service at the right time for the right duration. Bringing together these two statutory arms means we can provide a holistic service to vulnerable children and young people, focusing on a trauma-informed response to diversion, protection, restoration and permanency.
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