An increase in the NT Correctional Services budget for the new financial year will help to position the organisation to transition to a sustainable future, and play an essential role in keeping our communities safe.
Budget 2022 sees an additional $12.6 million to address demand pressures by recruiting more staff, and developing better staffing models for facilities across the NT.
A further $1 million allocation will enable NT Correctional Services to move forward with a multi-year change agenda. This includes the establishment of a dedicated Forward, Together project team that will design and implement a strategic roadmap to identify more effective and efficient ways to operate, and provide better outcomes for prisoners.
In addition, $2.6 million has been allocated to ensure the safety, security and wellbeing of prisoners in Darwin and Alice Springs Correctional facilities. Work will include:
structural and compliance surveys;structural works; andincreasing the number of beds.
Quotes attributable to Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Selena Uibo:
“The Territory Labor Government acknowledges the crucial role of NT Correctional Services in helping to keep our communities safe by managing offenders in custody and our communities.
“We are working to reduce the risks of reoffending by delivering programs and support services prisoners need to make positive changes to their lives.
“These programs and services are culturally appropriate, therapeutic and needs-based, and support the Aboriginal Justice Agreement’s aim to reduce the imprisonment of Aboriginal Territorians.”
