There were no recommendations in the review paper as all recommendations were contained in the Inspector’s Directed Review. Recommendations relating to the contents of this review paper in the Inspector’s Directed Review are as follows:
Recommendation 17
The senior management structure of the Department should be reviewed with a focus on improving correctional outcomes, efficiencies and service delivery. This process will require external direction and needs to be commenced urgently. Depending on the results of this review, a revised structure can then be implemented soon after the appointment of a new Commissioner and in consultation with that person.
Recommendation 18
(a) Appointments to all management positions at Banksia Hill should be finalised; and
(b) Adequate head office support must be provided in areas such as finance and human resources.
Recommendation 19
There should be an independent review of FTE staffing levels in Youth Custodial Services, taking into account comparative data about the numbers and deployment of staffing in other Australian juvenile detention facilities and prevailing standards.
This needs to be undertaken as a matter of urgency.
Recommendation 20
The above review should examine the drawbacks and benefits of the 12-hour shift system currently pursued in the juvenile detention system and alternative models.
Recommendation 21
The above review should investigate the present arrangements for and use of personal leave and the causes for and impact of workers’ compensation claims in the Youth Custodial area.
Recommendation 22
The Department should ensure that structured formal performance reviews are regularly conducted with staff in order to identify areas for improvement and areas of achievement.
Recommendation 23
It is recommended that the Department review the adequacy of its policies, procedures and resources in the following areas: (i) case planning; (ii) occupational health and safety; (iii) the roles and training of unit managers; and (iv) the employment of more Aboriginal people, including as mentors for young people.