Boosting NT Corrections for Safer Communities
The Finocchiaro CLP Government’s year of action, certainty and security has continued with today’s graduation of 31 trainee correctional officers.
Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said it was one of the largest graduations and was an important part of the continuous recruitment, which was key to maintaining an efficient system and keeping the community safe.
“Our CLP Government promised 2025 would be a year of action, certainty, and security, and we’re delivering on that commitment with a strong, well-supported corrections system that keeps Territorians safe,” he said.
“After this large graduation, I am delighted to announce the largest correctional officer course in 40 years is currently underway in Darwin, with 33 new officers.”
Five new officers also graduated in Alice Springs last week, marking progress across both the Top End and Central Australia.
“We promised to deliver a safer Territory, and the CLP Government is delivering on this by ensuring our corrections system is meeting the needs of community expectations and keeping dangerous and violent offenders off the streets,” said Mr Maley.
The Finocchiaro Government has delivered 138 additional correctional officers since August 2024, increasing operational capacity to ensure a safe and effective corrections system.
The second cohort of 10 G4S special correctional officers is commencing on Monday 14 April, following on from the first cohort of 10 special correctional officers which commenced duties at the Darwin Local Court on 31 March.
Under the legislation, the Commissioner may appoint a person to be a special correctional officer if the Commissioner is satisfied the person has the qualifications, skills or experience to properly perform the functions of a special correctional officer.
Youth Justice Officers have also completed correctional training to provide operational support as Special Correctional Officers at hospital escorts and bedsits.
“Expanding the correctional workforce is critical to ensuring access to rehabilitation programs to assist in reducing re-offending and dealing with the root causes of crime by helping offenders to become better people when they rejoin the general community,” said Mr Maley.
Infrastructure expansion continues to progress with 94 additional beds being added at Berrimah Correctional Centre this month to ease capacity pressures.
A further 46 beds are expected by the end of the month.
“The CLP will continue to invest in the people, infrastructure, and resources needed to strengthen the corrections system right across the Territory and keep the community safe,” said Mr Maley.
https://nt.gov.au/