Over the past three years, the Australian government has introduced a number of ‘alternative to detention’ pilot programs that have had significantly positive welfare and immigration outcomes. On average, these pilot programs have yielded a 94% compliance rate with 67% of those not granted a visa to remain in the country voluntarily departing. In addition, all detained children in Australia were released, together with their families, from detention facilities in late 2005, under new legislation permitting designated residence in the community allowing freedom of movement. As of September 2008, less than 1% had absconded, with no other reported violation of conditions. These pilot programs have centered around a community-based case management model that includes early intervention and individual assessment of the need to detain on a case-by-case basis.

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009