Taxpayers footing whopping repair bill for Queensland prisons

Queensland prisoners are racking up a shocking repair bill in our jails, nearing the million-dollar mark annually.

The costs have skyrocketed by a staggering 60 percent in two years.

Last financial year, taxpayers were forced to foot an $898,000 bill, to repair or replace televisions, furniture, light fittings and windows in Queensland correctional facilities.

The figure is up from $741,000 during the 2016-17 financial year, and $560,000 in 2014-15.

"You're in prison for a reason, it's not an Airbnb," opposition spokeswoman Ros Bates said.

Former Brisbane prison guard Hans Andersen told 9NEWS he saw the damage being carried out first hand, daily.

"When it's not their property they don't respect it," he said.

"They damage things by hiding stuff, mattresses get damaged because they [hide] stuff in mattresses, pillows."

The figures come after 9NEWS revealed over 2000 broken TVs were replaced in 2017.

The measure cost taxpayers more than $300,000.

The opposition believes the root of the problem is overcrowding, with figures showing 37.5 percent of Queensland's correctional facilities now have more inmates than permanent beds.

In a statement to 9NEWS, Queensland Corrective Services said it's addressing the issue, by "installing 1000 purpose-built bunk beds in high security facilities".

The minister wasn't available to speak on the issue this afternoon.