Serious allegations have emerged about female staff engaging in sexual acts with teenage inmates inside Victoria’s youth detention system, triggering fresh scrutiny of the state’s oversight and workplace culture.
Two whistleblowers — both current and former youth justice workers — have told news.com.au that incidents of sexual misconduct by female employees occurred across several facilities, including Parkville, Cherry Creek, and the now-closed Malmsbury youth justice centre.
One whistleblower, identified as Ian, described a disturbing case at Cherry Creek in which a female staff member allegedly performed oral sex on two 19-year-old detainees convicted of murder. The woman reportedly accessed their rooms before official unlock hours. Another incident involved a staff member entering a cell to engage in sexual activity with a 17-year-old.
A second whistleblower, Simon, confirmed separate allegations at Parkville, where a young female worker allegedly formed an intimate relationship with a 16-year-old Aboriginal inmate. The pair reportedly remained in contact after the staff member’s resignation, with her phone number appearing on his approved contact list.
Both whistleblowers claim a culture of silence prevailed, with superiors allegedly instructing staff not to report the incidents. “It was one of the worst-kept secrets on the floor,” Simon said, pointing to inadequate supervision and hiring practices that left young female employees vulnerable to manipulation.
The Department of Corrections and Community Safety said it takes all allegations seriously, stressing that any breaches of professional conduct are investigated and “actioned accordingly.” It urged staff to report misconduct through appropriate channels.
The revelations add to growing concerns about Victoria’s youth justice system, already under pressure from escalating violence, staff assaults, and unsafe working conditions. Public records show hundreds of WorkCover claims by prison staff, costing taxpayers tens of millions annually.
The latest allegations echo previous cases across Australia, including a New South Wales youth officer jailed for sexual offences against an inmate. Advocates say systemic reform is urgently needed to restore accountability and safety in Victoria’s youth detention network.
