Housing Crisis

In reply to the Hon. C. BONAROS ().15 October 2024).

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State): The Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services has advised:

South Australia has the lowest recidivism rate in the nation, with housing a key factor in reducing reoffending and supporting prisoners' reintegration into the community.

The state government has increased investment to ensure more people have access to secure and affordable housing after their release from prison.

In instances where private accommodation is not available, access to public housing can be sourced, as well as housing through other external providers.

The Department for Correctional Services (DCS) works with partner agencies, such as SA Housing Trust, to ensure housing is appropriate.

At the 2024-25 state budget, the state government committed $3.4 million to repurpose the former juvenile detention centre at Cavan, to deliver an initial 36 post-release beds to provide accommodation to prisoners who do not have access to stable housing for release.

There are also a number of 'alternative to custody' initiatives delivered through DCS partnerships including:

Bail Accommodation Support Program/the Arches, that provides short-term accommodation as an alternative to being remanded in custody for people on bail;

Catherine House, which has placements for women either on bail or post-release who require supported housing;

and Lemongrass Place, a residential facility in Port Augusta for Aboriginal men from remote areas to transition from custody to Country.