New data from the Australian Institute of Criminology indicates that 33 Indigenous individuals died in custody during the 12-month period ending in June of the current year. This figure represents the highest number of Indigenous deaths in custody recorded in Australia since national record-keeping began in 1980, occurring more than three decades after a significant inquiry into the issue.
Overview of Statistics
During the 12 months ending in June of the current year, a total of 113 deaths in custody were reported across Australia. Of these, 33 individuals were Indigenous, marking an increase from 24 Indigenous deaths recorded in the preceding 12-month period.
Disproportionate Representation
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people constitute less than four percent of Australia's national population. However, they represent over one-third of the country's total prison population.
Details of Deaths by Custody Type
Of the 33 Indigenous deaths reported between July of the previous year and June of the current year:
- 26 occurred in prison custody, an increase from 18 in the previous 12-month period.
- Six occurred in police custody, defined as a death while police were detaining or attempting to detain an individual.
- One death occurred in youth detention.
Demographics and Causes
All but one of the 33 Indigenous individuals who died were male. The average age of those who died was 45 years. Additionally, 11 individuals were awaiting sentence at the time of their death.
The primary cause of death among Indigenous individuals was classified as "self-inflicted," followed by "natural causes." Eight of these deaths were attributed to hanging.
Geographical Distribution
New South Wales recorded the highest number of Indigenous deaths in prison custody with nine instances. Western Australia followed with six deaths. Queensland, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory each reported three deaths.
Official Statements and Context
In October, Magistrate Teresa O'Sullivan, the NSW state coroner, noted the rising number of Indigenous deaths in custody within the state and stated that the trend warranted "independent and careful scrutiny, respect and accountability." She described the increase as a "profoundly distressing milestone."
Amanda Porter, an associate professor of criminal law at the University of Melbourne, informed the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that the figures demonstrate a "situation requiring focused leadership and political intervention." Porter also observed that "little alteration" had occurred since the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody and described the situation as a "national crisis."
Historical Perspective
The current figures follow a landmark inquiry, the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, which issued numerous recommendations. Since the conclusion of the 1991 Royal Commission, a total of 600 Indigenous individuals have died in custody, including six in youth detention.