Drugs, makeshift weapons, and a 'culture of fear' at Villawood detention centre, report warns

A scathing report from Australia's independent monitor has detailed serious issues at the Villawood detention center, including open drug dealing, the manufacturing of makeshift weapons, and a pervasive "culture of fear." The findings, based on a three-day visit in March, also highlighted that some individuals are sleeping outside under CCTV cameras for their own safety and that children are being kept from attending school.

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People in detention expressed concern and fear about the use and trade of illicit substances within the facility and the effect this was having on their sense of safety.

At the time of the visit, 428 people were held at Villawood, with some detained for up to 11 years. The report noted that 78 beds remained offline due to damage from a fire three years prior. Detainees described the "free movement" of drugs within the center, with substance use being commonplace and illicit substances traded relatively openly. This environment has fostered fear and concern among detainees, who reported aggressive behavior, intimidation, and standover tactics linked to the drug market.

The commonwealth ombudsman's report identified several key concerns, including the prolonged detention of children, significant safety issues, inadequate staffing levels, and hazardous damage to the facility's buildings. Large shards of glass were found in common areas, posing a hazard and potential weapon. Damage to concrete and brickwork suggested attempts to sharpen metal objects, indicating the potential production of makeshift weapons.

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They described incidents of aggressive behaviour, intimidation and standover tactics associated with the illicit drug market, which they perceived as contributing to a culture of fear within the centre.

Some individuals reported sleeping in common areas or outside, citing broken air conditioners and excessive heat inside rooms. Others chose these locations due to the perceived safety offered by CCTV monitoring, as most bedrooms are not under surveillance. The report warns that these issues "require urgent remedial action to ensure the safety of people in detention, staff and to maintain the good order of the facility."

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require urgent remedial action to ensure the safety of people in detention, staff and to maintain the good order of the facility