The Tasmanian Government is strengthening its commitment to rehabilitation and community safety through a new Job Ready Program, helping prisoners gain accredited skills and qualifications that will help them find work when they are released.
Minister for Justice, Corrections and Rehabilitation, Guy Barnett, said the program, which is delivered jointly by the Tasmania Prison Service (TPS) and the Civil Contractors Federation Tasmania (CCF), is already making a positive impact.
"This important Program provides opportunities for skill development that can lead to employment in the community," Minister Barnett said.
"Importantly, we are already seeing the benefits of giving people the skills and confidence they need to rebuild their lives."
"If people can obtain employment when they are released from prison, it reduces the risk of re-offending and helps keep our community safe.
"As a Government, we make no apology for being tough on crime, but while people are in prison, we are providing pathways to rehabilitation and a better future.
"Our Government continues to invest in programs that support prisoners to rehabilitate while they are in custody."
The program includes nationally recognised training and practical skills such as safe work practices, communication in the workplace, use of tools and equipment, and assistance with job readiness including CV writing and employment referrals.
The program is currently being piloted at the Risdon Prison Complex, with participants nearing the end of their sentence and preparing to transition back into the community.
"This is about safer communities and giving people the opportunity to turn their lives around," Minister Barnett said.
CEO of CCF Tasmania, Andrew Winch, said CCF has been working with people here to create pathways, both figuratively and literally to give people the skills they need to forge a new path on the outside.
"The program ran in March with eight participants completing four accredited units, gaining real qualifications, and building something tangible inside the facility for other prisoners to use," Mr Winch said.
"The results have been fantastic and because of this successful trial, we're now looking to roll out three more programs including one in the women's facility."
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