Aboriginal Deaths in CSNSW Custody Thematic Review

The Aboriginal Deaths in CSNSW Custody Thematic Review will carefully consider the deaths of Aboriginal people in the custody of Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) since 2010.

The Review will be guided by an external reference group including many Aboriginal experts with considerable relevant experience, chaired by Professor James Ward.

The Review will make recommendations on how CSNSW can reduce deaths in custody and improve the experience of Aboriginal people in custody, in a report to the Minister for Corrections. Contact [email protected] for further information.

Project overview

There are three key elements of the review:

1. Establishing with confidence the implementation status of those recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (RCIADIC) that are directed specifically towards CSNSW and Justice Health.

An executive summary and the implementation status of the recommendations of the RCIADIC directed towards CSNSW and Justice Health are now published.

2. Analysing recurring or emerging themes arising from coronial findings, CSNSW and Justice Health & Forensic Mental Health Network (JH&FMHN) investigations into Aboriginal deaths in custody during the relevant period.  
3. Capturing the lived experience and collateral impacts of Aboriginal deaths in custody on families of inmates that may be exacerbated by the investigation processes and unmet need for information and support following a death.