Commenting on the opinion piece: No open and shut case for new Adelaide prison

I trust that the powers that be in the government and especially in Corrections are reading this article. – Rick Sarre

It has been clear for quite a while that prevention is better than any other options when it comes to jail as an answer to crime. This also applies to the health system, where money spent on preventative measures more than repays for itself, and saves multiple amounts in reducing demands on hospitals and other health services.

Sadly, we have a political system that demands announceables, and projects that make governments appear tough on crime, or that look to be solving today’s problem. Setting in train policies that reduce re-offending, or health issues, years into the future are not looked on favourably by governments keen on re-election now.

A long term view is required in many things. I won’t hold my breath waiting for it. – Jon Holbrook

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What a lopsided view! Logically, as the population increases the rate of incarceration will as well, along with crime rates, road accidents, births, deaths, just about everything.

SA has not built a new prison or increased capacity substantially in its prisons in over 20 years.

Prison’s main function is not, I repeat not rehabilitation, that is the choice of the offender. The justice system will assist, but ultimately the offender chooses. It appears we get all tangled up in rights and justice when in fact we need offenders out of the community for the safety and well being of the vulnerable and the general population.

Remember the victims of theft, assaults, property damage, drug related crimes, traffic offences that cause injury, death. They don’t get that choice. – Anthony Ellis

4024 new beds? You make it sound like a hotel. What about the minors convicted of traffic infringements using stolen vehicles? Teach them to drive?

What about domestic violence offences? Haven’t efforts already been made to stem the flow? All too often incarnation is the only option to safeguard the public. – Peter Manwaring

Thank you Hannah, for your insightful narrative. A couple of points. Who told you prisoners are doing their best to stay out of prison? Some are, but not all. As for all the rehabilitive programs you talk about, where are they?

So many people such as yourself write lots of reports, have many talkfests, but have nothing to show for it. In the meantime, criminals continue to harass society, and we need to be safe so we need more prisons. – Edward Jaeger

Hannah March makes some very valid points. It should also be noted that Gillman is effectively a flood zone. It should never be built on.

The Planning Act expressly identifies that prisons should not be built in flood zones. Gillman works as a sink for the western suburbs. If you block that drain by building on it, then stormwater can be stranded in the suburbs. The prison should never be built, but if it is built, it should not be in Gillman. – Kathy Mickan