The number of Indigenous people who died in custody in Australia rose to the highest level since 1980. New data from the Australian Institute of Criminology shows 33 Indigenous deaths in custody in the 12 months to June this year, up from 24 the year before. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up more than one-third of all prisoners but less than four per cent of the population. Of the 33 deaths, 26 were in prison, an increase from 18 previously. One death occurred in youth detention, and six took place in police custody. All except one were male. The main causes were "self-inflicted" and "natural causes," with eight deaths due to hanging. New South Wales recorded the highest Indigenous prison deaths at nine, followed by Western Australia with six. Queensland, South Australia, and the Australian Capital Territory each had three deaths. The NSW state coroner described the trend as a "profoundly distressing milestone." Magistrate Teresa O'Sullivan said the deaths are not "mere statistics" but need "independent and careful scrutiny, respect and accountability." The average age of those who died was 45, with 11 awaiting sentencing. University of Melbourne's associate professor Amanda Porter called the figures a "national crisis" demanding "leadership and political action." She expressed frustration that since the 1991 royal commission, which made many recommendations, the crisis has worsened. Since the royal commission, 600 Indigenous people have died in custody, including six in youth detention.