Case 82: Reducing the risk of harm and mistreatment in police cells

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Victoria Police conducted a major human rights project to assess risks arising from the detention of people in police cells across Victoria. As a result of the review, Victoria Police introduced standard policies, informed by human rights considerations, across all its police cell complexes. The policies focussed on reforms including installation of drinking water facilities; removal of hanging points; rules around professional and personal visits; appropriate exercise yards and seating; dimming lights overnight; natural light and exercise. The review also involved physical assessment of cell complexes and upgrades, including installing smoke detectors and duress alarms. These reforms promote the humane treatment of people detained in police cells. In turn, they help to reduce the risk of self-harm, deaths in custody and mistreatment.

Source: Federation of Community Legal Centres (Victoria), Submission to the Review of the Victorian Charter, 2011, pp. 18-20