Delivering a landmark facility to provide a safe, secure and rehabilitative environment for young people in detention
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Sector
Correctional services and community
Completion date
2024
Location
Holtze, Northern Territory
Status
Completed
Type of project
Construction
Client
Northern Territory Government
Indigenous participation
12% of workforce
Employment created
Approximately 350 local jobs
The Holtze Youth Detention Centre is a landmark facility developed to provide a safe, secure and rehabilitative environment for young people in detention. This project is a direct response to the Royal Commission into the Protection and Detention of Children in the Northern Territory, aiming to replace outdated facilities with a modern, therapeutic setting that prioritises education, life skills development and Indigenous engagement.
This state-of-the-art facility supports the Territory Government’s commitment to improving youth justice outcomes by offering specialised programs, vocational training, and structured recreational activities.
Project features
The centre is a purpose-built facility featuring:
- Accommodation buildings – safe, modern, and climate-appropriate living quarters designed to promote rehabilitation.
- Education hub – fully equipped classrooms and training facilities providing vocational education and life skills programs.
- Medical and admissions centre – a comprehensive healthcare facility ensuring youth receive appropriate medical and mental health support.
- Visitor and recreation areas – secure outdoor spaces, recreational facilities, and visitation areas fostering family engagement.
- Community of practice building – a collaborative space to support rehabilitative and mentorship programs.
- Security and infrastructure – cutting-edge security systems integrated with a therapeutic design approach.
- Landscaping and environmental features – green spaces to support well-being and environmental sustainability.
- Support buildings and plant compound – operational support structures ensuring seamless facility management.
Project scope expansion
The Holtze Youth Detention Centre underwent a significant expansion in scope, reflecting the commitment to creating a world-class youth detention facility. The expanded scope included:
- Additional buildings: the project now comprises multiple new buildings to support a broader range of rehabilitation and educational programs.
- Security fence realignment: a strategic redesign of the perimeter security fence, improving site safety and operational efficiency while ensuring a secure yet humane environment.
- Enhanced medical and therapeutic facilities: expanded medical services and spaces dedicated to counselling, mental health support, and restorative justice programs.
- Education and training spaces: a fully equipped education hub, including vocational training areas to support employment pathways for detainees.
Project successes and innovations
Commitment to rehabilitation and education
The centre provides structured rehabilitation programs, focusing on education, behavioural support, and cultural connection. The facility includes:
- A dedicated school facility with vocational training programs, helping detainees develop skills for future employment.
- Therapeutic spaces designed to promote positive behavioural change and provide mental health support.
- Outdoor recreational areas that encourage physical activity and structured engagement.
Indigenous engagement and local workforce
The project prioritised Indigenous engagement, with 12% of total labour hours contributed by Indigenous workers. Key achievements include:
- A successful Indigenous Development Plan (IDP), with training and employment programs for Aboriginal workers.
- Partnerships with local businesses and suppliers, reinforcing the Northern Territory’s commitment to local economic growth.
- Respectful cultural considerations, including the protection of Aboriginal heritage sites and consultation with Indigenous elders.
Sustainability and environmental responsibility
The Holtze Youth Detention Centre has incorporated eco-friendly construction methods, aligning with modern sustainability practices. Key initiatives include:
- Waste reduction through the reuse and recycling of construction materials, including steel, concrete and timber.
- Energy-efficient systems, including solar-ready infrastructure and sustainable water management solutions.
- Minimisation of environmental impact by preserving native vegetation and implementing erosion control measures.
Project completion and future impact
The centre was successfully completed, marking a milestone for youth justice reform in the Northern Territory. By expanding the scope to include additional buildings and improved security infrastructure, the project delivers a holistic, rehabilitative model that sets a new standard for youth detention facilities in Australia.
The Holtze Youth Detention Centre is expected to play a crucial role in supporting young people, providing them with the education, life skills, and rehabilitative support needed for a positive future beyond detention.
