Overview
- Corrections Minister Enver Erdogan confirmed an initial 30 beds will reopen for detainees aged 17 and over assessed as lower risk.
- The government plans infrastructure and security works at Malmsbury, with funding of about $140 million over several years and an additional $4.8 million for security upgrades.
- The centre was mothballed in late 2023 after years of riots, assaults and escapes, and detainees were transferred to Cherry Creek and Parkville.
- Erdogan said remand numbers have increased under tougher bail laws and described the move as pairing community safety with rehabilitation.
- Opposition figures and unions questioned the cost, suitability and staffing, and the government estimates rehiring about 114 staff could take up to six months.