The former Mental Health Commissioner and Under Treasurer joins the Department to execute a comprehensive change management plan at Banksia Hill aimed at giving detainees the care and services they need.
While working for management consultancy Nous Group, Mr Marney led the development of a new operating philosophy and service model to guide how the centre functions.
The model is founded on best practice in youth justice in Australia and overseas, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing reoffending behaviour through a trauma-informed, therapeutic approach, in turn enabling the safety of all staff.
Department Director General Adam Tomison said Mr Marney had a unique combination of skills and experience ideal for tackling the challenges faced in youth detention.
“Tim’s role in developing the model of care, background in implementing major reforms and his extensive work in mental health means he is well placed to manage change at Banksia Hill,” Dr Tomison said.
Corrective Services Commissioner Mike Reynolds said Mr Marney’s task was integral to the Department’s efforts to stabilise and enhance the detention centre’s operations.
“While the structural improvements at Banksia Hill will make the facility more safe and secure, it is the model of care that will bring about long-term improvements in the care and support for young people and staff,” Commissioner Reynolds said.
Mr Marney said staff at the detention centre would be the main drivers of change.
“My role is about empowering people and giving them the tools, capabilities and competencies to successfully achieve their goals, he said.
“Importantly, I'll also be spending quite a lot of time listening to staff, young people, families and stakeholders.
“This endeavour is far too important for me just to deliver a report and then walk away. I really wanted to be part of seeing it through.”
Mr Marney was WA’s Under Treasurer from 2004 to 2014 and then led the Mental Health Commission for five years.
He served on the board of Beyond Blue for nearly 12 years, is Chair of the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre and Richmond Wellbeing, and is a board member of Reconciliation WA.
Mr Marney was most recently Chief Economist and Principal at Nous Group.
