And it is a policy designed to ensure the public cannot find out what happens behind this fence. Woomera now has three physical fences - one cyclone, one razor wire, and the new one, made of 3mm cold rolled steel pickets, riveted to railings and sunk into the ground. Woomera also has a legal one. So as Mr Ruddock considers our request for access to Woomera, he is again at the whim of a department that has made him its own. He needs departmental agreement - unless of course he lets the public see the facilities but not the detainees.
Journalists can enter some private prisons via a simple phone call.
Access to public prisons is usually available through visitor programs. There are none at Woomera. Elsewhere, the media can apply through departments and gain access on a public-interest basis. The allegations about Woomera are of such public interest that Mr Ruddock must ensure his department opens up. The department already has an official behind the fence.