Prison industries

Prison Industries deliver work-like training environments that equip people with the foundations to improve employment prospects. These activities provide high levels of engagement from the men and women, and reduces the cost of keeping someone in prison (as per Section 66 (6)(b) of the Corrections Act 2002).

Those who participate in prison industries gain valuable transferable skills that support them in their transition into employment upon release, while gaining formal qualifications from their time participating in industries. These qualifications range from building and construction, to manufacturing and engineering, horticulture, farming, and hospitality. People in prison can also achieve vocational short courses including first aid, health and safety, scaffolding, and forklift operation.

In addition to qualifications, a person can gain softer skills that build confidence and self-esteem, supporting them to communicate effectively, take instruction, work as part of a team, and develop healthy routines and work ethic. For some, it supports their pathway into another type of work, such as Release to Work opportunities, or to engage with our Employment and Training Consultants.

Industries and training activities are delivered by Instructors who work alongside participants to teach them skills and knowledge specific for the industry sector. With more than 130 business like industries across the country there is a wide variety of opportunities on offer.

We operate:

  • A Piggery
  • Building and construction yards
  • Barista training
  • Café
  • Carpentry workshops
  • Engineering workshops
  • Farms
  • Grounds Maintenance
  • Horticulture/Nurseries
  • Kitchens
  • Laundries
  • Painting
  • Warehousing type activities

Check out which prisons operate each industry across the country.