UPDATE: In a shocking revelation, children from Mparntwe/Alice Springs are being transferred 1,500 kilometers to Darwin without parental notification. This alarming practice, confirmed by Northern Territory Corrections, has raised serious questions about the rights and safety of vulnerable youth in detention.
The issue erupted during the final day of the Northern Territory parliamentary sittings this week, igniting a heated debate after media reports surfaced detailing how young people are allegedly disappearing from the streets of Central Australia. Independent MLA Justine Davis confronted Corrections Minister Gerard Maley regarding the government’s policy changes on transferring children in youth detention.
Davis specifically inquired about reports alleging that the NT Government no longer requires notification of parents or guardians when children are relocated. “Can you confirm whether this policy has changed? If so, why was it changed, and on what basis does the government believe it is acceptable to relocate a child 1,500 kilometers away without informing their parents?” she pressed.
In response, Maley confirmed the transfers are occurring but dismissed claims of a policy change. He emphasized that families should be aware of their children’s court proceedings, stating, “To say that parents do not know about it—how would you not know that your child has been to court and is going through the court process over months?” His assertion sparked outrage, with many questioning the government’s accountability.
Opposition voices, including Labor’s shadow attorney-general Chansey Paech, condemned the transfers. Paech expressed horror at the reports of children being “ripped from the streets” and shipped to Darwin without warning. “This is not just wrong; it is a direct violation of these families’ rights,” he declared.
The Department of Corrections reiterated that while it is not legally required to notify guardians before transferring children, significant efforts are made to inform parents or caregivers. However, the lack of a legal obligation raises serious ethical concerns. A 2024 report from the NT Children’s Commissioner highlighted the dire circumstances surrounding these children, noting that 94% had interacted with Child Protection, and many faced domestic violence and mental health challenges.
Paech called the relocation of children without family knowledge “inexcusable and indefensible,” labeling it a “gross injustice.” He emphasized the critical need for transparency, respect, and accountability in the system: “No family should ever be left wondering where their child is or how they’re being treated.”
The situation has sparked widespread concern among human rights, legal, and Indigenous organizations, with many condemning the government’s failure to uphold basic rights for children and families.
WHAT’S NEXT: As this situation develops, public outcry and legislative scrutiny are expected to grow. Advocates are calling for immediate reforms to ensure that families are informed and involved in the care of their children. The community’s response may shape future policies regarding youth detention and transfers in the Northern Territory.
This urgent issue requires immediate attention, as families deserve to know the whereabouts and well-being of their children in the justice system. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.