Review of COVID-19 response

The ICS reviewed the response to COVID-19 in youth and adult custodial centres in NSW since the start of the pandemic.

The review was informed by inspections and visits undertaken by the ICS which included interviews with people in custody and staff. In addition to onsite work, the review was informed by meetings with and written submissions from stakeholders. Data and documents were also obtained from CSNSW, YJNSW and JH&FMHN. 

The Inspector made 21 recommendations in this report in relation to:

• Legislation and policy informing the response to COVID‑19 in NSW custodial centres and services
• Governance structures within the key agencies
• Minimising the risk of COVID‑19 entering a custodial centre
• Reducing the risk of transmission to staff, inmates and detainees 
• Managing COVID-19 illness in custody
• Continuity of services for young people and adults in custody during the pandemic
• Managing safe release from custody.

The Review of the response to COVID-19 in NSW custody report was tabled in NSW parliament and published in December 2023.

Review of the response to COVID-19 in NSW custody report (PDF, 3.0 MB)

Media release (PDF, 62.8 KB)