2992. Hon Alison Xamon to the minister representing the Minister for Police:
I refer to Australia’s obligations under the Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (OPCAT), and I ask:
(a) will powers to visit and inspect all police lockups be granted to the Inspector of Custodial Services;
(b) if yes to (a):
(i) when; and
(ii) by what mechanism; and
Western Australia’s Court Diversion programs deal with people who have underlying problems which contribute to their offending, with a view to helping them to get their lives back on track and keep them out of prison. The diversionary courts are not about absolving people of their crimes, but recognising that people struggling with issues such as substance abuse; mental health; family violence; gambling, and homelessness need rehabilitation and support. Evidence shows us that people who go through WA’s range of diversionary programs are less likely to reoffend.
