Wagga's youth detention centre will be upgraded as part of a multimillion-dollar project to protect staff and enhance rehabilitation efforts.
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The Riverina Youth Justice Centre is one of six youth justice centres run by the state, and $8 million has been allocated to "boost security" at all locations.
Alister Henskens, Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services, said the upgrades would strengthen centres and transport vehicles, ensuring a safe working environment for officers.
"Safer and more secure custodial environments enable staff to focus on rehabilitation and education, as we work with detainees to reduce their risk of re-offending," he said.
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Infrastructure that will be upgraded across the centres includes new perimeter fencing, reinforced ceilings inside high-risk units, additional security cameras, new airlock doors and security grille and new office space.
Custodial vehicles will also be fitted out with GPS tracking devices, onboard communication equipment and CCTV systems.
"The NSW Government is reforming the Youth Justice custodial system in a comprehensive way, enhancing security infrastructure in line with recommendations of Lee Shearer's report," Mr Henskens said.
"These upgrades build on that important work which has helped reduce the rate of assaults on staff within youth justice centres by 40 per cent since 2018-19."
The works are expected to be completed by the end of June 2022.
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