The first group of detainees at the new Wickham Point Immigration Detention Centre (IDC) near Darwin arrived tonight.

A spokesman for the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) said the 102 single adult men were transferred to Darwin by charter aircraft from Christmas Island.

“The men are now being accommodated in the first 500-bed compound that the department commissioned for operation last week,” the spokesman said. “The men are mainly Iranians and Afghans.”

The compound at the facility includes an accommodation block, administration block, a medical centre, an amenities building and a dining area. Two men will share each room. The compound’s capacity is 500.

“The department is ensuring appropriate support services are available to detainees accommodated at Wickham Point,” the spokesman said.

“This includes access to departmental case managers, mental health support teams, medical staff, interpreting services and education staff, as well as appropriate recreational facilities, which contribute to maintaining the detainees’ mental health and wellbeing.”

All detainees arriving at Wickham Point have received appropriate health and identity checks.

The remaining two compounds – each to also accommodate a maximum 500 men – are expected to be commissioned early next year.

Broadcast quality photos and video footage of Wickham Point are available at DIAC’s online newsroom at www.newsroom.immi.gov.au

Media Enquiries: National Communications (02) 6264 2244