Vago’s audit statement describes transfers, missed hearings and limited access to lawyers
The Victorian auditor-general’s office is auditing Victoria Police’s detention practices after Guardian Australia reported that holding people in police cells routinely breached police guidelines. Vago confirmed the review is underway.
Vago said the audit will examine whether Victoria Police and the Department of Justice manage prison and police-cell capacity in a way that supports human rights and the efficient functioning of the justice system. It covers the movement of people between stations when cells fill and the implications for people held beyond the recommended period.
Guardian Australia reported in November last year that the process known as “decanting” moved people hundreds of kilometres across Victoria. Police could transport individuals to other stations when one station’s cells were full.
Vago said in an audit statement: “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.”
Guardian Australia reported that the detentions could exceed the 14-day target and, in some cases, meant people served their entire sentences in police cells.
Vago said: “This can mean that prisoners miss their court appearances and do not have easy access to their lawyers and health services.”
Vago added: “This undermines both prisoners’ human rights and the proper functioning of the justice system.”
The office also noted that Victoria’s recent bail reforms were likely to increase pressure on prison beds and staff capacity. Guardian Australia reported that the decanting process arose as the government grappled with tougher bail laws and a shortage of prison beds and corrections workers. The audit was announced earlier this month. Vago said it was underway and expected to be tabled early next year.