The Cleveland Youth Detention Centre was established in 1980 at Old Common Road, Belgian Gardens, Townsville. It is a government-run facility, housing people aged 10 to 17 years who have been refused bail and remanded in custody, or who have been sentenced by the courts to a period of detention.
In 1998, the Cleveland Youth Detention Centre was investigated as part of the Commission of Inquiry into Abuse of Children in Queensland Institutions, otherwise known as the Forde Inquiry. The Commission inquired into the current and past administration of the Cleveland Youth Detention Centre and submissions from former residents were taken, as part of its investigation into youth detention centres. The Commission visited the Cleveland Centre to inspect it and learn more about daily routines and speak with current detainees. Cleveland was described in the 1999 report as “somewhat dilapidated” and that there was “inadequate room for education, programs and recreation” (Forde Report, p.197).
While the Commission noted issues with the Cleveland Centre, it was considered in better condition when compared to the other youth detention facilities open in Queensland at that time.
As of 2025, the Cleveland Youth Detention Centre has a bed capacity of 112.
From
1980
To
Current
June 1980 -
The Cleveland Youth Detention Centre is situated at Old Common Road, Belgian Gardens, Townsville, Queensland (Building Still standing)