Two months ago, Corrective Services NSW announced a new benchmarking formula to be applied to prisons across the state aimed at “improving our standards, accountability and the efficiency of our operations”.
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Mayor Kathy Sajowitz it appeared the proposed staff restructure has now commenced, and a large number of staff positions in Central West jails are to be lost.
“The Oberon Correctional Facility at Shooters Hill is designated to lose four positions and I believe these staff cuts have already commenced,” she said.
“I am very concerned by the effect this may have on the hugely successful young offenders program run at the facility, The Gurnang Life Challenge.
“Logically if there are not enough staff to implement and supervise the program it will be at risk.
“The 16-week Gurnang Challenge has a proven recidivism impact, the statistics showing that the rate of reoffending by young adult males completing the program is more than half that of those that do not have this opportunity.”
Cr Sajowitz said the specialised program was a unique combination of adventure-based training and intensive case management to addressg anger, violence, impulsive behaviour, peer pressure, gambling, drug and alcohol issues.
Participants are also encouraged face up to and recognise the impact past behaviours may have had on their families
“Oberon Council strongly supports the Gurnang Life Challenge Program and recognises its value to the people of NSW,” Cr Sajowitz said.
“Council also has a Memorandum of Understanding with the correctional centre facilitating the young men to work within the community on projects beneficial to all, allowing the participants to develop new skills, contribute to society and engender positivity in the community.
“If staff were to be cut this program could also be at risk due to supervisory restraints.
“The same applies to various contracted work programs active in the local area which create not only an income stream but a sense of achievement for these young men.”
Cr Sajowitz urged Corrections Minister David Elliott and his department should be looking to expand the Gurnang Life Challenge to other jails rather than losing it in the name of “cost savings”.
“All tiers of government, need to realise that every decision made influences people’s lives and my fear is that if more staff cuts go ahead this proven worthwhile program may be at risk and that in itself would be criminal and regressive,” she said.
“It’s not always about the bottom line – we should not lose sight of positive human impact.
“We all make mistakes, I ask the department not to make one in this instance.”
