NT Joins National Corrections And Justice Forum
The Finocchiaro CLP Government is putting the Territory’s voice at the centre of national talks on corrections reform, with Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley leading a roundtable discussion on bail, remand and electronic monitoring at this year’s Corrective Services Ministers’ Conference (CSMC).
This annual conference, held in Sydney this week, brings together leaders from across Australia and New Zealand to evaluate what’s working effectively, identify challenges, and explore ways to improve corrections services nationwide.
In our year of action, certainty and security, Minister Maley is joined by Northern Territory Corrections Commissioner Matthew Varley and will take part in high-level discussions on key issues including best practice approaches to rehabilitation and reintegration.
“Whether it’s reducing reoffending, improving rehabilitation, or keeping the community safe, we share a collective commitment to achieving better outcomes,” Minister Maley said.
“We are committed to learning from the successes of other jurisdictions and ensuring Territorians benefit from modern, evidence-based approaches.”
The conference agenda will also focus on topics including family and domestic violence, the role of women in corrections, the use of new technology, and organisational cultural reform.
Minister Maley will lead roundtable discussions on bail and remand, where he’ll present the Territory’s approach to electronic monitoring and stronger community safety measures.
“The NT faces unique challenges, but many of the issues align with those experienced nationwide.”
“Working together with other jurisdictions helps us learn from their experiences, implement successful initiatives and highlight Territory’s approach in areas like electronic monitoring,” Minister Maley said.
Commissioner Matthew Varley said the Northern Territory continues to play a valuable role in shaping the national conversation on corrections reform.
“This forum is an important opportunity to share insights and strategies at a national level and adopt proven approaches that strengthen our workforce and improve rehabilitation outcomes, while showcasing the innovative work being done in the Territory,” he said.
The forum comes just days before a major package of Youth Justice Act reforms is set to be introduced to NT Parliament, proposing stronger protections for Youth Justice Officers, removing detention as a last resort, putting victims first, and ensuring serious offences are met with real consequences.
https://nt.gov.au/