Removing non-violent offenders from Tasmania’s prisons may enhance the economy, according to a report from the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA). The research indicates that approximately 36 percent of Tasmanians incarcerated are classified as non-violent “victimless offenders” or non-violent property offenders. This figure aligns closely with the national average of 37 percent.
Mia Schlicht, a research fellow at IPA and author of the report, argues that many of these individuals could face alternative consequences, such as participation in employment programs, home detention, fines, or forced restitution. Redirecting the estimated $2.6 billion spent annually on incarcerating non-violent offenders towards crime prevention could improve community safety and allow for longer sentences for violent criminals.
Schlicht emphasizes the importance of utilizing low-risk, non-violent offenders to contribute positively to society through work while also compensating victims of their crimes. She stated, “With violent crime on the rise, we should be reallocating resources to put more police on the beat so they can deter criminals from acting in the first place.” Her research highlights a pressing issue, as prisons in many states are nearing capacity, with Tasmania projected to reach jail capacity by November 2028.
Financial and Safety Implications
The financial burden of housing inmates is significant, with the cost in Tasmania reaching $219,267 per prisoner per year. Over the past decade, the state’s incarceration rate per 100,000 adults surged by 41 percent from 2013 to 2023-24, positioning Tasmania as the highest in the nation for growth in this area.
Justice Minister Guy Barnett responded to the IPA’s findings by reaffirming the government’s commitment to public safety. He stated that the government is focused on ensuring that violent and dangerous offenders face justice and serve their time in prison. Barnett noted, “We make no apology for putting community safety at the forefront,” emphasizing the ongoing efforts to develop programs that rehabilitate offenders and divert low-risk individuals from jail.
While acknowledging the need for cost-effective strategies, Barnett mentioned plans for a new maximum-security unit set to be constructed in 2026 and 2027. This move aims to bolster the corrections system’s capacity, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to maintain safety within the community.
Future Considerations
The debate surrounding the management of non-violent offenders continues, as many advocate for a shift in focus towards rehabilitation and community-based solutions. The IPA report suggests that addressing the needs of non-violent offenders could positively impact the economy while enhancing public safety.
As the conversation evolves, stakeholders from various sectors, including the state Labor party, are being invited to weigh in on the implications of these findings. The discourse surrounding the balance between rehabilitation and public safety remains a critical point of discussion in shaping the future of Tasmania’s criminal justice system.
