A review of solitary confinement and similar practices in youth detention in Australia. The report finds these practices cause serious harm, breach international human rights standards and disproportionately affect First Nations children and children with disability. It makes 24 recommendations to prohibit solitary confinement, strengthen safeguards and ensure youth justice systems adopt trauma-informed, rights-based approaches.

Solitary confinement and similar practices – often referred to as ‘isolation’, ‘separation’, ‘segregation’ or ‘exclusion’ – are documented across youth detention centres and adult prisons holding children in Australia. 

The report draws on:

• a review of legislation in all states and territories
• survey responses from over 20 oversight, legal and human rights bodies
• international benchmarks and standards for the treatment of children in detention.

Key findings

• The review highlights a troubling disconnect between law and practice and identifies systemic issues across all jurisdictions.
• Solitary confinement in youth detention causes severe harm and breaches human rights. The report calls for an urgent ban and national safeguards.
• The report raises serious concerns over the use of solitary confinement and similar practices. It highlights that these practices fail to meet basic standards of care and are inconsistent with the purpose of youth justice, which is rehabilitation and not punishment.
• Solitary confinement is recognised internationally as an extreme practice that violates fundamental human rights when applied to children.