There is no mass hunger strike within the Australian immigration detention network, or at any immigration centres. Those detainees publicly claiming to be on a hunger strike continue to be observed eating and drinking within the centres, despite not attending regular meal times.
Anyone who is genuinely conducting a hunger strike would be supported in line with normal processes, including through medical supervision and mental health care.
The ABF continues to work with key organisers of protest activity to discuss their concerns, but as publicly stated previously we strongly refute claims that conditions in immigration detention facilities are inhumane or brutal.
Detention facilities and amenities are designed to be comfortable, while also ensuring the safety and security of detainees, staff and the public.
Detainees in immigration detention are given access to quality food, medical care, educational programs, cultural, recreational and sporting activities, internet and computer facilities, televisions, and clean, comfortable sleeping quarters that include mattresses.
Immigration detention is used as a last resort and, where possible, unlawful non-citizens are accommodated in the community or in less restrictive alternative places of detention. Individuals whose visas have expired or been cancelled, and who have exhausted all options to stay in Australia, are encouraged to leave Australia. There is no requirement for them to remain in detention in Australia.
It is important to note that a significant number of detainees have had their visas cancelled on character grounds, based on criminal convictions and links to criminal associations such as outlaw motorcycle gangs or organised crime. These individuals are free to return to their home countries at any time to await the outcome of any outstanding appeals.
The time an individual spends in immigration detention depends on a range of factors, including the complexity of their case, the legal processes they pursue and whether they voluntarily choose to leave Australia.
The ABF is committed to the good order of the detention network, and will continue working to ensure that Australia’s immigration detention facilities are as safe and secure as we can make them.
