Northern Territory Minister for Corrections, Gerard Maley says the Government is accelerating key Corrections Infrastructure Master Plan projects in a bid to reduce crime, improve community safety, and support Corrections officers, police and the courts.
“Our government is fast-tracking projects to expand capacity, to manage the more than 400 additional prisoners who have entered the Corrections system since the August election,” said Mr Maley.
“Work continues at the Berrimah Correctional Centre, taking the total bed count to more than 160 beds since opening in December.”
The Minister said one of the most pressing challenges facing the Government is the significant gap between the rising prisoner population and the ability to recruit and train corrections staff at the pace required to meet demand.
“We acknowledge this is putting significant pressure on the corrections system, including police watch houses,” he said.
“Today, I have visited the Darwin Watch House, Palmerston Watch House, Berrimah Correctional Centre and Darwin Correctional Centre.
“We are listening to the workforce, and I have made it clear to Corrections Commissioner Matthew Varley that all options are on the table to address workforce challenges.”
The CLP Government is expanding capacity and bolstering the workforce using the following measures:
- One of the Territory’s largest Corrections recruit squads is currently in training and will graduate in April;
- Additional recruit squads will commence training in the coming months;
- A 96-bed modular sector at Alice Springs Correctional Centre is on track to come online at the end of this week.
“We’re strengthening corrections capacity and addressing workforce challenges to ensure Territorians are protected, and the justice system operates effectively,” said Minister Maley.
“I want to thank the tradies, contractors, and fire engineers for their tireless efforts, including working through the Christmas and New Year period.
“I also want to acknowledge the dedication of our Corrections officers, police, and court staff, who are working collaboratively to tackle these challenges.
“This isn’t just a corrections issue – it’s a justice system issue. We are working across departments to deliver real solutions that support our officers, strengthen infrastructure, meet increasing demands, and ensure community safety,” he said.
