Council calls for consultation after Ashley Youth Detention Centre announcement

Meander Valley Council acknowledges today’s announcement by the State Government outlining its intention to repurpose the Ashley Youth Detention Centre site into a minimum-security adult prison with an agricultural rehabilitation and training focus.

Prior to this announcement, the State Government had made a number of statements indicating the site may be redeveloped as a prison. These statements created some angst and uncertainty for community members, particularly those who live near the site.

In both 2024 and 2025, Council wrote to State Government Ministers seeking clarity on the future of the site. On each occasion, Council was advised that no decision had been made and that consultation with key stakeholders, including Meander Valley Council, would occur before any final decision.

While today’s announcement provides some clarity about the future of the site, Council notes that the consultation referenced by the State Government did not occur prior to the decision. We look forward to engaging constructively with the State Government as this process moves forward and expect that consultation will now take place with Council, nearby residents, and the broader community.

The potential impacts of a site closure on the existing workers at the Ashley Youth Detention Centre have been, and remain, a key concern for Council. In the current economic climate, it is essential that workers are provided with certainty and are supported through any transition. With that in mind, Council acknowledges the State Government’s aims to sustain and create jobs in the Meander Valley.

Council further acknowledges that a defined future use of the site is preferable to a full closure of the site, which would likely have had negative economic and social impacts on the local area.

Council will seek further details on the proposed development and its implications. We encourage the State Government to ensure its stated commitment to community consultation is delivered in a timely, transparent and genuine manner.

Council remains committed to working with the State Government to achieve outcomes that support local employment, community wellbeing, and the long-term future of the region.