The Tasmanian Government has scrapped plans to build a new prison in Deloraine, opting instead to invest in upgrading existing facilities and rehabilitation programs.
The decision to abandon the proposed 270-bed Northern Correctional Facility, which was estimated to cost $270 million, comes after years of uncertainty about the project’s future.
Corrections Minister Madeleine Ogilvie said the cancellation follows extensive consultation and a 5% decrease in the prisoner population in recent years.
“The government will instead prioritise upgrading and enhancing Tasmania’s existing correctional system and invest in rehabilitation opportunities and reducing reoffending rates, ultimately contributing to greater community safety,” she said.
Ogilvie said the success of the existing technologically-advanced home detention order and electronic monitoring program means courts have “more sophisticated and flexible sentencing options” than simply putting people behind bars.
“We have seen the positive impacts of the programs and strategies in place in reducing reoffending and keeping Tasmanians safe,” she said.
The government will also invest in modernising the correctional system with advanced in-cell technology, including video calling capabilities, to allow prisoners to maintain regular contact with families and lawyers.
Options for the potential future use of the Ashley Youth Detention Centre site, which is scheduled to close in mid-2026, are also being explored.
These include minimum-security facilities, relocating the Launceston Reception Prison and building an additional residence for women.
“We expect to consult broadly with respect to any future investments in relation to the AYDC site,” Ogilvie said.
