It was a privilege to attend the Pre-Release Services Expo at Roebourne Regional Prison on Friday 6 March. The expo provided an opportunity for people in custody to meet a wide range of community service providers in one place, helping them access information and better understand the supports and opportunities available to them both pre- and post-release.
Engagement from people in custody throughout the morning was exceptional. Many asked thoughtful questions and spoke openly about their goals for release. Several expressed interest in engaging with Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation (AAC) as part of their transition planning, reinforcing the value of clear pathways into services and practical next steps that support a confident return to the community.
AAC delivers the REAL program (Reconnection, Employment and Learning) within Roebourne Regional Prison, and also provides support in the community through RAES (Remote Australian Employment Services). Together, these programs help people in custody build work readiness, connect with training and learning opportunities, and link in with employment support and services pre- and post-release.
A key strength of the expo was the cross-section of organisations in attendance. We were able to connect with other providers and have set tentative follow-up dates to explore how we can work together to support people in custody before and after release. This coordinated approach helps strengthen continuity of support and ensures people in custody receive consistent information and timely referral options.
Thank you to the Roebourne Regional Prison internal staffing team for hosting and coordinating such a well-run morning and for creating a welcoming space for meaningful engagement. Roebourne Regional Prison has a strong focus on improving reintegration outcomes for people in custody, with an emphasis on building employability and work-related skills, education and training, life skills, and programs that build resilience and self-esteem.
Overall, the expo was a valuable opportunity to see what can be achieved when services come together to support people in custody who are seeking a fresh start. By strengthening connections early and continuing to build collaboration across Roebourne Regional Prison and community providers, we can improve continuity of support pre- and post-release. We look forward to progressing the follow-up conversations and working collectively to help people in custody access the right supports at the right time as they transition back into the community.
