The action is led by four named male plaintiffs who were detained at the centre from the early 1990s to after 2010.

Lachlan Armstrong, appearing for the plaintiffs, said the four named men in the statement of claims would provide examples of operations at Ashley over a significant period of time.

READ MORE: 'Proactive' solutions needed for state's teacher shortages

Mr Armstrong said claims by the plaintiffs went as far back as 1961. He said the named plaintiffs would act as an example for the claims of the rest of those involved in the class action.

Mr Armstrong said the questions to be asked over the proceedings were what was the appropriate practice at the centre at a particular time, what was the actual practice, and were there shortfalls in practice that were negligible and that would require compensation.

MOST READ: GP asks why proposed stadium could receive $750-million during "health crisis"

He said since the statement of claims was filed, several other former detainees had contacted the representing law firm to submit their own claims.

Mr Armstrong anticipated there would be others as the matter progressed.

READ MORE: Husna Pasha to create conversations at 2022 Tamar Valley Peace Festival

He said to that effect, any new former detainees with a claim would seek to be added to the overall statement of claims in the new year through a formal order through the court.

The state has until November 30 to submit a response to the plaintiffs' claims.

Mr Armstrong said both parties were actively considering mediation and arriving at a settlement which would avoid sending the matter to a trial next year.

A further case management hearing is scheduled for February 24.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: