9 | Conditions of detention
9.1 Accommodation and shared spaces
Concerns regarding the accommodation and shared areas in the Hawk and
Falcon compounds are set out in the infrastructure concerns section of this
report. The Commission observed that the bedrooms in these compounds
were shared by up to two people and contained a bunk bed, a small fridge, a
television, and storage for personal belongings. Bedrooms were equipped with
ensuite bathrooms. These accommodation units were small and cramped.
The Hawk and Falcon compounds had shared laundry facilities, an indoor
common area which contained a kitchenette, seating and a television, and
outdoor common areas which included small gardens, outside kitchenette, and
landline telephones.
Serco staff within these compounds carry a master key that grants access
to every bedroom. This means that, whenever an individual wants to access
their room, staff are required to open it. The Commission observed almost
constant approaches to staff requesting them to open doors. As stated earlier
in the report, people in detention consistently reported that locks are easily
compromised, and they are wary of leaving valuable goods in their rooms.
Figure 17: Hawk compound accomodation ensuite
Figure 16: Hawk compound accommodation
The high security compounds, Swan, Eagle, Kingfisher, and Cassowary; each
contain a kitchen/living room area, tables and chairs that are bolted to the
ground and televisions encased in a plastic box. The bedrooms within these
compounds have bunk beds with attached shower and toilet facilities and a wall
mounted television. Each high security compound has a laundry room and a
gym room with a number of weight machines and free weights.
Yongah Hill Immigration Detention Centre Inspection Report • 2024 • 59