Woomera Immigration Reception and Processing Centre

The Woomera Immigration Reception and Processing Centre was a detention facility for people in the immigration process, located on a large compound in the remote Australian outback surrounded by security fences. The site included housing quarters, administrative buildings, and monitored areas for case processing and holding detainees.

The facility was established in 1999 as part of Australia's response to increased immigration cases in the late 1990s. It was closed in the early 2000s after becoming involved in national debates about human rights and migration policy.

The centre became central to debates about Australian immigration policy and inspired artists to create works addressing detention conditions. These artistic responses show how the place played an important role in public perception and cultural discussion.

The site is located in a remote area of the state and is difficult to reach. Visitors should plan ahead since the nearest towns are far away and infrastructure is limited.

In June 2000, about 480 detainees left the compound simultaneously and marched to the nearby town in organized protest. This mass action became a notable moment in the history of Australian immigration policy and showed resistance to conditions on site.

Location: South Australia

Inception: 1999

GPS coordinates: -31.18528,136.80750

Latest update: December 10, 2025 16:03