I call on the WA Government to immediately install air conditioning in all the prison cells in Roebourne Regional Prison. The prison is in Western Australia's Pilbara region, which regularly experiences temperatures of 40 degrees or more. In January, the prison experienced 50.5 degrees - its hottest day on record.

There are no windows in the cells, only fans which push hot air around. Former inmates have described it as 'inhumane', 'torturous' 'haunting' and 'horrific'.

About 80 percent of inmates are Aboriginal people. Many are physically unwell and on medication, with the heat putting added pressure on their health. Many endure prickly heat rash, and have to deal with insects and spiders coming through the windowless, barred windows. The unbearable heat is a serious threat to the health and wellbeing of inmates. There is a real danger that the heat could lead to deaths. 

The horrendous conditions constitute a breach of people's human rights - and don't meet the recommendations of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.

Please WA Corrections, put aircon in the cells now. No-one should have to suffer like this, especially in a wealthy country like Australia.