The mother of a teenager who died in a Queensland youth detention centre has taken formal legal action against the state's youth justice department. Perri Conti has lodged a complaint with the Queensland Human Rights Commission, alleging systemic failures contributed to her son's death.
A Mother's Pursuit for Accountability
Perri Conti's son, Cleveland Dodd, was just 16 years old when he was found unresponsive in his cell at the Banksia Hill Detention Centre in Perth on October 12, 2023. He tragically passed away in hospital a week later, on October 19. The incident, which is believed to be self-harm, occurred while Cleveland was on remand.
Ms Conti, who resides in Cairns, has now filed a formal complaint with the Queensland Human Rights Commission (QHRC). The complaint is directed at the Queensland Department of Youth Justice. Her legal team asserts that the department failed in its duty of care, leading to the preventable death of her child.
The complaint specifically cites alleged breaches of Cleveland's human rights, including his right to life, liberty, and security of person, as well as the right of children in detention to be treated with humanity and respect. It argues that systemic issues within the youth justice system created the conditions that led to this tragedy.
Systemic Failures Under Scrutiny
This legal action shines a harsh light on the operations of youth detention facilities in Australia. Banksia Hill, where the incident occurred, is a facility in Western Australia. However, Cleveland Dodd was detained there under an agreement between Queensland and Western Australia's governments, a practice known as interstate detention.
Ms Conti's lawyers have highlighted several critical concerns. They point to potential failures in risk assessment, inadequate monitoring of vulnerable detainees, and insufficient mental health support within the detention system. The complaint suggests these are not isolated issues but part of a broader pattern of neglect.
A coronial inquest into Cleveland Dodd's death is scheduled to begin in Western Australia on July 28, 2025. This formal complaint to the QHRC is a separate but parallel process seeking accountability and systemic change from the Queensland authorities responsible for his welfare.
Seeking Justice and Reform
For Perri Conti, this step is about more than just her son. She has publicly stated that her goal is to ensure no other family endures the same pain. By lodging this complaint, she aims to force a thorough examination of the policies and practices that govern how young people are treated in custody.
The Queensland Human Rights Commission will now assess the complaint. The process could involve conciliation between the parties or, if unresolved, may proceed to a public hearing. The outcome has the potential to influence policy and operational guidelines for youth detention not just in Queensland, but across state borders.
The case raises urgent questions about the care of children in state custody, the use of interstate detention agreements, and the adequacy of mental health resources in youth justice systems nationwide. As the legal and coronial processes unfold, advocates and the public will be watching closely for answers and meaningful reform.
