A Northern Territory Government report has found a broad range of problems in the youth justice system.

Lack of staff training, excessive use of force, reliance on the confinement of detainees and inability to deal with the mental health of young inmates are just some of the in NT youth detention.

The NT Government commissioned the review after a number of fights and riots pushed staff to the brink.

Tear gas was used on six teenagers who tried to escape the old Don Dale facility, as well as dozens more in a subsequent riot last year. 

The report made 16 recommendations such as more training of all staff in case management, use of force, dealing with detainees with mental health problems, and cultural awareness.

“Part of the reasons [for such criticism] is things like dormitories not having toilets in them,” Correctional Services Minister John Elferink told the ABC.

“It led to those dormitories often stinking of urine because people at night would often urinate in the corner.

“But this is why we've asked for information, or a review, to be conducted, so we can look inward and say; ‘How can we do this job better?’”

Following the release of the report, the NT Government unveiled a $1 million upgrade of the Don Dale centre, which will be used to build new classrooms, carry out painting work and other refurbishments.

The Government has also pledged to implement all of the report’s recommendations, including reviewing the case management process and giving staff more protective equipment for emergency situations.