Photo 11: Dental clinic (VIDC) Photo 12: Medical consultation room (PIDC) Access to hair dye The Commission was consistently advised by women in detention at PIDC, VIDC and BRP and by detention centre staff, that access to hair dye was prohibited due to a directive made by Serco and the ABF, as it would alter someone’s appearance and may cause identity issues. While the provision of hair dye may seem like a relatively trivial issue to some, it is important in terms of human dignity. The Mandela Rule 18(2) stipulates that ‘[i]n order that prisoners may maintain a good appearance compatible with their self-respect, facilities shall be provided for the proper care of the hair and beard, and men shall be able to shave regularly’.174 The Commission notes this issue had been raised numerous times during DCC meetings, including at BRP (April 2023 and November 2023), VIDC (March 2024) and PIDC (July 2023 and November 2024).175 The minutes of these meetings demonstrate women discussing possible alternatives like henna or having only their roots dyed by a professional hairdresser. They also note the perceived arbitrariness of the rule given men can shave and grow their beards and women can wear wigs, both of which also alter appearance. Detention centre staff also told the Commission they had tried for years to have the prohibition overturned. This included ABF management conducting an extensive risk assessment at VIDC exploring non-alcoholbased products, which was rejected by senior leadership. The Commission understands the need to ensure appearance is not unduly changed. However, it also notes that in Queensland correctional facilities the Superintendent is able to approve the purchase of non-toxic hair dye to maintain hair colour, cover grey hair or to manage a reversion to the natural hair colour.176 Under the Queensland Corrective Services policy, where hair dye may lead to a significant change in appearance, the Superintendent must process the purchase and retake the prisoners photograph for identification purposes.177 RECOMMENDATION 19 The Department and Serco should revise its policy on the prohibition of women obtaining and using hair dye and align it with the Queensland Corrective Services policy. 42 Not just an afterthoughtThe experience of women in immigration detention