The state government has launched a new intensive support program to assist vulnerable women leaving prison.
Delivered through a partnership between Corrective Services NSW and not-for-profit Embrace People & Place, the $5.7 million project aims to provide wrap-around support for women leaving custody to help them rebuild their lives to prevent crime.
The program will provide six months of pre-release assistance with a focus on identifying and addressing their post-release needs, as well as providing practical supports.
After they’ve left custody, the initiative plans to offer support for up to two years with a focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, due to their disproportionate representation in prisons and unique barriers to reintegration.
It builds off 2021 BOSCAR data which identified education and skills training play an important role in reducing recidivism, with a 45% reduction in theft offences amongst participating inmates after release.
The program will utilise a former Periodic Detention Centre in the Port Stephens area as the temporary accommodation facility.
Work has already begun to prepare eligible women for the program, with the first cohort to be housed at the facility in 2026.
Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said they are committed to enhancing rehabilitative outcomes.
“We need to offer intiatives that acknowledge and respond to the unique experiences of women who enter custody,” he said.
“Reintegration and rehabilitation is really important to ensure there are no new victims, a safer community for all and that women post-release can live much better lives.
“We know that women’s pathways to criminal behaviour are often a result of abuse, disadvantage and trauma – and this project will support community safety in an effective and meaningful way.”
Embrace People & Place CEO Coralie Nichols said those leaving prison need to return to community life with dignity and confidence.
“Really difficult problems are often solved when people come together,” she said.
“So, having a moment where philanthropy, works with government and a non-for-profit to support those most vulnerable in our community – it’s a mark of who we are.”
.jpg){kind=spacer}
