Statement on Building A Stronger And More Secure Youth Justice System
The Premier has today announced that a new high security youth justice centre will be built as part of reforms to the youth justice system. Recent incidents have made it clear that a major shake-up is needed to ensure the safety of the community and the better management and rehabilitation of young offenders.
It is expected construction of the new facility will begin early next year and be completed by the end of 2020. The construction of the new facility is expected to result in the creation of between 2,000 and 3,000 jobs.
The preferred site for the new facility is on government owned land in Werribee South due to the proximity to health and education services. There is a significant buffer between the preferred site and residential areas.
The Government is also considering locating a new justice precinct in the growing Werribee area, which may include new courts and a stronger police presence.
I understand that many people in the community are concerned and alarmed with today’s news.
I am proud to be the Member for Werribee and have always been an advocate for Wyndham. The Andrews Government has made very substantial investments in our community and will continue to work on delivering better schools and hospitals, improving our transport network and growing jobs for Werribee.
Wyndham is a community that looks after people. We need to remember the human faces here. These are troubled youth. They will be in a secure facility away from the community. If we look after them now, we’re safer later.
Close community consultations will be held over the next few weeks where more information will be made available and to hear any concerns you may have.
I will keep the community informed about the consultation sessions. More information on these community consultations will be provided in the coming days, with notices in the local paper and updates at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au.
In the meantime, if you have questions you can contact the Government’s dedicated Hoppers Lane Youth Justice Centre Information Line from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday on 1800 630 738.