WA officials keep Bullsbrook quarantine site under consideration as new prison option

Western Australia’s prison system is under strain, prompting officials to explore converting the $400 million Bullsbrook quarantine centre into a correctional facility. Corrective Services Commissioner Brad Royce affirmed his interest in the site, noting it is a Commonwealth asset that could become available, while Corrective Services Minister Tony Buti said “nothing’s off the cards.” A feasibility study ordered by the Department of Justice is underway, but the proposal faces strong local opposition, highlighted by a parliamentary petition signed by 165 residents.

The move follows recent “show-cause” notices to Hakea, Casuarina and Melaleuca prisons and reports of triple-bunking inmates. The state also plans to expand Acacia Prison by 480 beds by 2029 and is building a new youth detention centre, while announcing $100 million for a regional court security model to free up police resources. Officials stress any large-scale prison construction is unlikely until the next decade.