Using police cells to detain prisoners

Why this is important

Police cells are designed to hold people for short periods, such as after arrest and for bail hearings. However, in 2025 there were media reports of police holding prisoners in police cells beyond the recommended 14-day limit. 

When cells at one station are full, police may transport individuals to other stations. In some reported cases, police have transported individuals hundreds of kilometres away. This can mean that prisoners miss their court appearances and do not have easy access to their lawyers and health services. This undermines both prisoners' human rights and the proper functioning of the justice system. 

With Victoria's recent bail reforms likely to continue to increase pressure on prison bed and staff capacity during 2026 and beyond, it is timely to examine the use of police cells for prisoner detention.

What we plan to examine

We plan to examine if Victoria Police and the Department of Justice and Community Safety manage prison and police cell capacity to support human rights and the efficient functioning of the justice system.

Who we plan to examine

Department of Justice and Community Safety 

Victoria Police

Court Services Victoria