Deputy Chief Minister
Minister for Corrections
Media Release From custody to careers: CLP's $2M reform pathway for safer communities
7 October 2025
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has launched its $2 million Industries, Skills & Employment (ISE) initiative, marking a major step forward in its commitment to restore community safety, reduce crime, and rebuild the Northern Territory's economy.
ISE is a three-year reform agenda that transforms time in custody into real pathways to employment - directly tackling the root causes of crime: poor education, lack of skills, and long-term unemployment.
"Unlike Labor, who neglected prisoner education and disengaged from industry for eight long years, we're investing in practical reform that delivers real results - fewer victims, safer communities, and stronger job outcomes," said Minister for Corrections, Gerard Maley.
As part of our year of action, certainty, and security, and supported by more than $2 million in targeted investment, ISE stands as a cornerstone of the CLP's Crime Reduction Strategy, here built on five key reform pillars:
A four-stage, case-managed pathway from custody to community, including intensive pre-release support, day-of-release assistance, and 12-month workplace mentoring.
A modernised in-prison education model with in-cell learning, literacy and numeracy upgrades, and a revitalised CDU training partnership tied to Territory labour demands.
Industry-specific training leading directly to job placements.
Training and work programs for those on bail or transitioning from remand.
A joint initiative with NTIBN and local industry to create sustainable, long-term jobs - especially in regional and Aboriginal communities.
"Community safety remains our number one priority - but we know lasting safety comes from breaking the cycle of crime through real rehabilitation," said Mr Maley.
For nearly a decade, Labor failed to support prisoner rehabilitation, slashing funding for skills and training, and abandoning partnerships with NT industries.
"Safer streets come from real accountability, but also from second chances that work," said Minister Maley.
Corrections Deputy Commissioner Kymberley McKay confirmed agencies are ready to deliver.
"From in-cell learning to employer-led placements and 12-month mentoring, this pathway from custody to community is about building sustainable industry partnerships."
