Rosalie Woodruff MP | Greens Corrections spokesperson
After six years in government, it is clear the Liberals’ approach to crime and justice is failing on every front.
We have a poorly managed, severely over crowded prison system, nowhere near enough rehabilitation programs, and conditions that are lacking for staff and inmates alike.
Under the Liberals, Tasmania’s corrections system is failing inmates, staff and the wider community. In fact, the Liberals’ law and order approach is making the community less safe.
The Custodial Inspector’s report into Risdon Prison is the latest example of the Liberals’ refusal to safely and effectively manage our justice and corrections system.
Previous custodial inspectors’ reports have painted the picture of a system on the brink. This leaked report shows a system past that point, in utter chaos and dysfunction.
Being ‘tough on crime’ might be a snappy soundbite, but in reality the Liberals’ punitive approach is entrenching disadvantage, making our communities less safe, and cramming our prison well past capacity.
Given the attitude this government has towards corrections, and the years they have had to resolve issues of their own making, it’s clear our corrections system is failing due to Liberal policy.
Tasmania’s increasing crime rates and overcrowded prison don’t mean we’re not being ‘tough’ enough - they show a refusal to invest in the policies that work.
The Corrections Minister ignores the success of other countries and Australian states in reducing crime and recidivism.
She won’t prioritise funding for rehabilitation programs, education and literacy, community inclusion measures, and housing – all the measures shown to reduce crime and decrease prison crowding.
The Liberals’ policies have led to increased crime, a packed prison, and deepening disadvantage and inequality. They should ditch their failed approach and start investing in solutions that actually work.