Construction is scheduled to start at Malmsbury Youth Justice Precinct in March next year after the state government announced it was “rebuilding the entire youth justice system”.
The government will expand the Malmsbury facility, making room for 32 new secure beds, and a new fence will be built to improve security.
The new security measures are in response to inmates escaping the centre in March and January this year.
Police found two detainees not far away from the centre in March and 15 inmates fled the premises during a riot in January.
Families and Children Minister Jenny Mikakos said the state government was rebuilding Victoria’s youth justice system.
“We’re expanding beds at our youth justice facilities and improving security to meet growing demand and help keep the community safe,” Ms Mikakos said.
The works will be delivered as part of a $79.5 million package which will include the expansion of the Parkville Youth Justice Precinct to incorporate 36 new secure beds.
The additional 32 beds at Malmsbury are expected to be in place by late next year.
The state government said a community advisory group would be established to allow community input regarding the works.
