Alexander Maconochie Centre Management Unit Audit

At the inquest into the death in custody of Mr Luke Anthony Rich, the coroner recommended an independent review of the safety of the rear cell doors in the Management Unit at the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

ACT Corrective Services commissioned Pedavoli Architects to do this work.

Their review found that the issues raised by the coroner had been addressed, but also identified several other dangers with the doors.

In response to these findings ACT Corrective Services have locked the doors to prevent their use. The doors will only be unlocked if needed during an emergency.

The review also identified other areas for improvement for the Management Unit. These findings will be used to guide future works. You can read the full public statement below.

Public Release: Alexander Maconochie Centre Management Unit Audit

Date: 7 November 2025
Prepared by: Pedavoli Architects Pty Ltd
Reference: AMC Management Unit Audit & Report[B]

Overview

Pedavoli Architects was commissioned by ACT Corrective Services to conduct an independent audit of the Management Unit at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC). This review was initiated in response to the inquest into the death in custody of Mr Luke Anthony Rich and the Territory’s acceptance of all recommendations from the Coroner’s Report.

Purpose

The audit focused on identifying ligature risks in the exercise yards attached to accommodation cells, specifically addressing the dangers presented by rear cell doors. The review also considered compliance with the Corrections Management Act 2007 and the Davidson Report, aiming to ensure humane and respectful accommodation for persons deprived of liberty.

Key Findings

• Ligature Risks: Multiple ligature points were identified in the interconnecting doors and exercise yards, including door hardware, mesh ceilings, and fixtures such as CCTV enclosures and lighting.
• Amenity Concerns: The attached exercise yards were found to have poor natural light, limited outlook, and minimal amenities, impacting the wellbeing of occupants.
• Safety Upgrades: Previous mitigation measures have reduced some risks, but further action is required to eliminate remaining hazards.

Recommendations

1. Door Safety: Install secure hold-back frames for interconnecting doors to prevent their use as ligature points and weapons. Retrofit hinges and locks to further reduce risks.
2. Window and Ventilation Improvements: Add secure windows and upgrade ventilation to improve light and air quality in accommodation cells.
3. Exercise Yard Upgrades: Remodel exercise yards by increasing their size and height, replacing mesh ceilings with secure alternatives, and installing open-style end walls with anti-ligature mesh.
4. Alternative Yard Option: Consider decommissioning existing yards in favour of new, larger external exercise areas built to anti-ligature standards, with improved amenities and safety features.

Commitment to Safety

This audit reflects a commitment to continuous improvement in custodial environments, prioritising the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of all individuals in custody. The recommendations are informed by best practice guidelines and operational experience and are intended to guide future upgrades at AMC.