28729 (2025). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections

28729 (2025). Dr Tracey McLellan to the Minister of Corrections: What number and percentage of women, if any, were held on remand due to a lack of suitable bail accommodation by region for the month of May?

Hon Mark Mitchell: Corrections does not determine who is in prison and who is in the community. A judge in court decides whether bail will be granted, and the person is required to comply with any bail conditions imposed on them by the court. I am advised that Corrections does not operate a central database capturing the reasons why people (including women) are remanded in custody and providing a secure bail address is not a requirement for bail to be granted under the Bail Act 2000. I am further advised that as part of the bail application process, defendants can provide a proposed bail address. However, it is for the court to determine whether the address is secure or suitable. Furthermore, a defendant’s decision to abstain from making a bail application may not be based on the availability to provide an address. There are a range of factors that may influence their decision, including receiving legal advice.