Scherger immigration centre to remain in use

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Created on Friday, 08 June 2012 14:39

Written by Editorial staff

Plans have been unveiled to keep the Scherger immigration centre in Queensland open for another two years.

Located at the Scherger RAAF base in the far north of the state, the centre is currently used to accommodate single adult male Irregular Maritime Arrivals.

Minister for immigration and citizenship Chris Bowen emphasised that the strong public support for the detention centre played a significant role in the decision for it to remain open.

Furthermore, the Department of Defence confirmed that the premises would not be needed for operational purposes over the next two years.

Mr Bowen explained that many members of the local Weipa community actively encouraged the department to extend the use of the Scherger centre.

He noted that there has been an ongoing consultation and communication with groups throughout the local area to discuss ongoing operations at the site.

One area of discussion has been the potential for the contract to be extended further.

"Once again, the use of the centre during the next wet season will help alleviate the traditional economic slowdown that occurs in the region during those months," he confirmed.

As some immigration agents may be aware, facilities at the centre include an administration block, three air conditioned accommodation areas for clients and temporary accommodation.

Other on-site amenities include a tennis court, religious rooms, medical support facilities, recreation areas, internet facilities and a swimming pool.

Detainees can also access departmental case managers, medical staff, interpreters, education services and mental health support teams.

Mr Bowen explained that the centre will continue to be an important facility over the next two years.

He commented: "Importantly, without a genuine deterrent such as the Malaysia Arrangement to prevent dangerous boat journeys to Australia, the Scherger centre also will need to play a continued role in maintaining the required mainland detention capacity."

The Scherger facility is expected to remain at its existing capacity in the foreseeable future and upgrades have been made to onsite medical and healthcare facilities.

As with all detention facilities, Scherger is maintained and operated by the Detention Services Provider.

A contract was signed in 2009 for Serco Australia to provide services to people in immigration detention centres throughout the country, replacing the contract of G4S Australia.

Its duties also involve providing services to those in immigration residential housing and immigration transit accommodation throughout Australia.

Furthermore, International Health and Medical Services was enlisted to provide general and mental health services to people in immigration detention.