An information line set up to answer any questions residents have about the proposed Werribee South youth detention centre is giving locals incorrect and often confusing advice.
The state government’s dedicated Hoppers Lane youth justice information line, which has been in operation for most of February, has incorrectly advised several residents that Wyndham council is running community consultation regarding the facility.
When Star Weekly called the information line asking about community consultation, we were told that at least one information session had already been held.
Upon further questioning, the woman appeared to be describing the community rally held by the Speak Out – Wyndham’s Voice group last week, which drew thousands of people to the Werribee city centre.
“I know there has been one information session – just a brief one,” she said.
“I don’t know if it was an official one or anything… I only found out from these calls, so it might not have been an official one.
“It would have been probably a week ago, and it was just basically to touch base. I don’t think it had a great deal of information in it, other than what’s on the website already.
“I think it might have just been through the local shire, but I think that’s all been done now, I think that’s not in their hands, so they can’t really contact the shire.”
The woman referred us to the department of health and human services (DHHS) website – which has a media release, map and fact sheet from February 6, but no details of any information sessions.
She also advised us to check a Facebook group where “there’s a group of locals objecting to it in that location”.
“Just keep an eye out in the local paper, that would be the best place to see it, and just maybe ask around with neighbours and friends if they have seen anything, or look on that website.”
Wyndham council chief executive Kelly Grigsby said the council had contacted the DHHS to request that accurate information be provided to residents.
“At this stage we are aware of several residents who are understandably frustrated by being referred back to council after calling the information line,” Ms Grigsby said.
“Given that the planned youth detention centre is a state government project, Wyndham council has no role in the community consultation sessions that may occur.
“We continue to call on the State Government to conduct an open and transparent community consultation process regarding the youth detention centre.”
