Board of Inquiry into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths in custody in the Alexander Maconochie Centre
On 7 May 2025 the ACT Government committed to forming a Board of Inquiry into Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths in custody at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC).
The intent of the inquiry is to consider systemic issues surrounding the recent deaths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in custody at the AMC.
How Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will be involved
The Minister for Corrections, Marisa Paterson, has held multiple meetings with individuals and groups from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to understand their perspectives.
"We look forward to working closely with the Government to ensure the Board of Inquiry is trauma-informed, adequately resourced, and responsive to the needs and voices of our community. This is a vital step towards accountability, transparency, and the creation of a safer, more just system for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT"
— Chair of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body
Read the full statement from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.
In December 2025, the government formed a Community Advisory Committee. The purpose of the committee is to provide input on key aspects of the Board of Inquiry, including the scope of the terms of reference and advice on the skills, experience, qualities and background that are desirable in potential members. The committee was formed following an expression of interest process involving the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
More information about opportunities to contribute to the Board of Inquiry will be available closer to the time the inquiry commences.