August 30th 2024.
Attention readers: Please be advised that the following story contains details and content that may be distressing to some. We understand that this may be a sensitive topic for some and we urge you to proceed with caution.
Tragedy struck overnight at Banksia Hill Detention Centre in Perth, as a teenage boy lost his life. This marks the second death to occur at the facility in the past 12 months. The Department of Justice in Western Australia has confirmed that the 17-year-old was found unresponsive during a routine check by staff at around 9:50 pm. Sadly, it is suspected that he took his own life.
A department spokesperson shared that staff immediately broke into the cell and began resuscitation efforts before on-site medics arrived to assist. Despite the arrival of St. John Ambulance, their attempts to revive the boy were unsuccessful. Our hearts go out to the boy's family during this difficult time. We want to assure them that the Department of Communities will be providing them with support.
In light of this tragic event, counselling and cultural services will be made available to the young people at Banksia Hill to help them cope with this loss. The corrective services commissioner, Brad Royce, was also present at the facility overnight. He expressed his deepest sorrow and condolences to the family and community.
The WA Police Chaplain has been providing care to staff at the facility, who also have access to support from the Department. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the boy's death on behalf of the state coroner.
During a press conference this morning, Premier Roger Cook acknowledged the failure that has occurred because a young life was lost. He emphasized that the government will continue to strive towards improving the lives of both the staff and the individuals at the facility. This tragedy marks the second death at Banksia Hill in the past year, after Cleveland Dodd's passing in October 2020.
Dr. Brad Pettitt, a WA Greens MLC, expressed his sympathy towards the boy's family and community. He stated that the news of another young person's death while in the care of the broken youth justice system is devastating. His thoughts also go out to the other young people at Banksia Hill, who now have to deal with the loss of one of their peers. Dr. Pettitt believes that urgent reform is needed in the WA Youth Justice system, including separate facilities for remand and sentenced youth, and keeping them connected to their culture and community.
It is disheartening to note that in the history of WA's youth justice system, there have only been two deaths, both occurring in the past 12 months. Dr. Pettitt believes that mere tweaks to the system will not suffice, and a major overhaul and new leadership are needed.
We understand that this news may be difficult for some readers, and we want to remind you that support is available. You can reach out to Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636 for assistance. We extend our deepest sympathies to the boy's family, friends, and the community during this tragic time.
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