Don Dale inquiry must lead to change: World Vision

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

World Vision Australia welcomes the federal government’s announcement of a royal commission into the Don Dale Youth Detention Centre, but warned that the inquiry must result in real action addressing underlying issues.

“The abuse of children in detention, revealed by 4 Corners, beggars belief,” said Susan Anderson, World Vision Australia policy and advocacy director.

“The use of tear gas and hoods were clear and gut-wrenching human rights violations.

“As a child-focussed organisation that works in some of the most troubled nations on Earth, we are appalled that child abuse of this magnitude can occur in Australia.

“Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s immediate decision to call a Royal Commission is welcome. But this royal commission must result in real and lasting change and address the root causes of youth detention in the Northern Territory. We must not have another inquiry that results in little or no action.”

Ms Anderson said the treatment of children at Don Dale contravened many of Australia’s obligations under international law and in particular the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which states, under article 37, that:

- “No child shall be subjected to torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment”.

- “Every child deprived of liberty shall be treated with humanity and respect for the inherent dignity of the human person, and in a manner which takes into account the needs of persons of his or her age.”

Tim Costello, World Vision Australia chief executive, described the 4 Corners program as an “appalling and shocking insight into the treatment of minors in the Northern Territory.”

For interview, contact; Stuart Rintoul 0407 241 492

Media Releases, Aboriginal, Human Rights, Indigenous

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