The new 132-bed accommodation precinct at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre (DPFC) is complete – with the final 12 beds coming online, boosting capacity at the maximum-security prison to almost 500.
Minister for Corrections Gayle Tierney visited the prison to open the Torrens Unit, which will house women who are preparing for release, as well as women who are transitioning to the minimum-security Tarrengower Prison.
Ms Tierney also opened the new Winja Gunya Building, where prisoner rehabilitation programs will be delivered.
‘Winja Gunya’ comes from the Yorta Yorta language and means “safe camp for women.”
The expansion is part of a major program of works at the prison, which includes a new dedicated mental-health unit that will open next year.
A new gatehouse will also be built to improve barrier control, boost security and provide better facilities for visitors, while improvements are also being made to the medical centre and prison industries.
The Andrews Labor Government has allocated an additional $17.8 million in the Victorian Budget 2017/18 for a range of other vital infrastructure upgrades at DPFC, including a new perimeter detection system.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Corrections Gayle Tierney
“We’re investing in our prison system and making vital improvements to keep Victorians safe.”
“By replacing old accommodation units with new ones, we’re making the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre a more modern prison that is safer for staff and prisoners.”
“The Winja Gunya Building is an important part of the corrections system, providing a place for programs to be delivered that’ll reduce reoffending and make Victoria safer.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020