Wednesday, 17 June 2026

 David LIMBRICK (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (12:00): (1357) My question is for the Minister for Corrections. The United Nations advise that solitary confinement should be authorised only in exceptional cases as a last resort for as short a time as possible, and it should be subject to independent review and should not exceed 15 days. However, my office has been informed of an allegation that a prisoner who was not a threat to others and who themselves was under no immediate danger has been held in separation for well over 300 consecutive days at the Hopkins Correctional Centre. Can the minister advise if it is true that any prisoners have been kept in isolation for more than 300 days in recent times?

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Environment, Minister for Outdoor Recreation) (12:00): I thank Mr Limbrick for his question and his interest in the Corrections portfolio. I will make sure that question is referred on to the Minister for Corrections in the other place for a response in line with the standing orders.

 David LIMBRICK (South-Eastern Metropolitan) (12:01): My supplementary is: if it is true that prisoners have been kept for this long, can the minister explain how this has complied with international standards and the standards of Corrections Victoria itself?

 Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Environment, Minister for Outdoor Recreation) (12:01): I thank Mr Limbrick for his supplementary question. I will make sure that question is passed on to the Minister for Corrections in the other place for a response in line with the standing orders.