About this service
Under the Inspector of Detention Services Act 2022 (IDS Act) the Ombudsman has a new and additional role, the Inspector of Detention Services (Inspector).
Promoting the humane treatment of detainees and the prevention of harm through reviews, inspections and independent reporting
The IDS Act sets out a framework for review of detention services, inspection of places of detention and independent and transparent reporting. The focus of the Inspector will be on the prevention of harm rather than responding to complaints when harm occurs. This preventative focus will examine the systems and the lived experiences of people detained.
Specific IDS functions include:
- inspecting places of detention in Queensland, including youth detention centres, adult prisons and watch-houses
- preparing and publishing standards for inspections
- reporting to the Legislative Assembly on inspection visits and making recommendations for improvement.
When carrying out IDS functions, the Inspector must have regard to the cultural background or vulnerability of detainees.
Staff from the Office of the Queensland Ombudsman support the Inspector’s functions under the IDS Act.
Detention review experience
Ombudsman officers have experience in reviewing detention services. This includes visiting correctional centres as part of an administrative improvement function under the Ombudsman Act 2001, investigating complaints made by detainees and major investigation reports such as:
The Office continues to provide its services to the community under the Ombudsman Act 2001.
Questions?
More information is available under Frequently asked questions and IDS Legislation and standards.
Further details will be added to this website when they are available.
All enquiries should be directed to the online form.