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REDUCING REOFFENDING I0% BY 2020
ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF COUNTRY The State Government would like to preface this report with an acknowledgment of country. The State Government acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the Adelaide region and that their cultural and heritage beliefs are still as important to the living Kaurna people today. The State Government would also like to pay respects to the cultural authority of Aboriginal people from other areas of South Australia and Australia who have contributed to the development of the Report and who will be involved in, or impacted by, the delivery of its recommendations.
CONTENTS
Minister Foreword 4
Chapter One: Our Journey to 10by20 5
Setting a Target for a Safe South Australia 6
The 10by20 Strategic Policy Panel 7
Next Steps: The Government’s Response 7
10by20 Panel Strategies 8
10by20 Government Responses 9
Chapter Two: Our Focus on Reducing Reoffending 10
Sector change 11
Individual Responsibility 11
Managing Risk 12
Working in Partnership 12
Responding to Complex Needs 12
Correctional Services Culture 12
Chapter Three: Our 10by20 Implementation Plan 13
Implementation Steps 14
Governance, Reporting and Monitoring 15
10by20 Stakeholder Engagement Framework 16
Chapter Four: Our Plan to Achieve 10by20 17
Chapter Five: Our Programs for Change 24
New Foundations Housing Program 25
Work Ready, Release Ready 27
Rehabilitation Programs 29
Legislative Amendments 31
Tailored Rehabilitation for Aboriginal Offenders 33
Expanding Community Supervision and Reintegration Services 35
Corrections Culture 37
Chapter Six: Our Evidence Base for Success 39
New Foundations 41
Work Ready, Release Ready 41
Rehabilitation Programs 42
Community Transition and Learning Centre 42
Appendix A: Our Response to the Panel’s Recommendations 44
Appendix B: Glossary 54
List of Key Terms 54
List of Key Acronyms and Abbreviations 54
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 3
MINISTER FOREWORD
Upon becoming Minister for Correctional Services in early 2016,
three statistics stood out as key indicators of the substantial challenge
facing our prison system.
The first, was the fact that the prison population is growing at 6.01% per year.
The second, is that over 75% of our current prison population have been in prison
at least once before. And finally, that the rate of reoffending is 46%.
Reoffending has substantial costs for our community. It means more crime, more
victims and more expense to the taxpayer through costly court proceedings and
incarceration. However, a reduction in reoffending means a safer community and
frees up Government resources to invest in more productive community services,
like schools and hospitals.
For these reasons, the rate of reoffending must be a key performance indicator of
our criminal justice system. In August last year, the State Government set a bold target
to reduce the rate of reoffending by 10% by 2020, and following a near-12 month
review of the State’s correctional system, we are now driving a fundamental shift in
corrections policy.
This document is a blueprint for achieving the reoffending reduction target. The
strategy has been informed by the work of the independent panel, Chaired by
Mr Nyunggai Warren Mundine AO, and accepts all six themes and 36 recommendations
put forward by the panel.
Almost $80 million, including $28 million in new funding, is being invested in reducing
the rate of reoffending by 10% by 2020 which underpins a whole-of-system change in
offender management.
If the target is realised, SA will become a national leader. Our new approach is built
upon factors that prevent reoffending – supportive accommodation, employment
and community support.
The reality is that the majority of people in prison will be released, which means that
successful transition from prison back into the community is paramount.
While the Government will ensure that dangerous criminals that need to be locked
up will be, focusing on rehabilitation will result in less crimes being committed, fewer
victims and the saving of taxpayer dollars.
This fundamental policy shift will not only mean fewer victims of crime but will also
provide real opportunity for offenders to turn their lives around.
The Department for Correctional Services and I will now work swiftly to implement
this strategy and realise our target.
Hon Peter Malinauskas MLC
Minister for Correctional Services
4 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020
CHAPTER OUR JOURNEY ONE TO 10BY20
CHAPTER ONE OUR JOURNEY TO 10BY20
ver the past decade, South Australia has experienced a
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significant growth in prisoner numbers despite crime rates
decreasing.
he Reducing Reoffending: 10% by 2020 target was announced in
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August 2016 to address the high rates of reoffending and to ensure
that we continue to build safer communities.
Strategic Policy Panel was appointed, chaired by Mr Nyunggai
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Warren Mundine AO. The Panel’s Report outlines six strategies and
36 associated recommendations.
he Government accepts all recommendations and has committed
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$79,137,000 – including $28,103,000 in new funding – to achieve
the target.
Setting a Target for a Safe South Australia The State Government has committed to the
Reducing Reoffending: 10% by 2020 (10by20) Strategy
The South Australian Government has a vision that our
in order to break this cycle and achieve a range of
neighbourhoods will be safe and welcoming places
benefits, including:
where people can live active and healthy lives and feel
part of the community. afer communities;
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Our commitment to building a safe South Australia ewer victims; and
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has seen a marked reduction in the State’s crime rate, ossible cost saving of $20.5 million.
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though levels of incarceration continue to rise. The setting of the target was only the first step.
South Australia’s imprisonment rate has increased The State Government accepts all of the Panel’s
at twice the national rate, with the prison population recommendations and will now work to implement
growing by 86.5% in 10 years. evidence-based policies and programs that will
Repeat offenders are responsible for a large proportion achieve real change.
of South Australian crime and nearly three quarters of
those currently in custody have been in prison before.
The current situation in South Australia demonstrates
a need to break the cycle of reoffending. The State’s
criminal justice system must work to address the 46%
2016
underlying causes for anti-social behaviour and assist
41%
50%
ex-offenders to become contributing members of society.
2020
45%
South Australia’s prison population
has had a decade of sustained growth.
40%
If we can reduce the rate of reoffending in
South Australia, we will create a safer
community with fewer victims and less crime. 35%
It’s time to take a smarter path and stop the
revolving door of our prisons. 30%
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
6 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020
The 10by20 Strategic Next Steps:
Policy Panel Strategic Policy The Government’s Response
Panel Membership
In August 2016 the State The Government accepts all of the
Government established
the 10by20 Strategic Policy Mr Nyunggai Warren Panel’s recommendations.
Panel (Panel). Mundine AO (Chair) The 10by20 Government Response and Action Plan
The Panel was tasked with (this document) outlines the State Government’s:
Dr Lynn Arnold AO
investigating best practice and ommitment to reducing reoffending and
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identifying strategies that will building community safety;
reduce rates of reoffending Ms Amanda Blair
ision for achieving 10by20, including a
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and promote rehabilitation
whole-of-system response;
and reintegration outcomes. Emeritus Professor
Anne Edwards AO Implementation plan, which prioritises the
Working within this framework,
recommendations and outlines key actions;
the Panel developed the
Reducing Reoffending: 10% Mrs Nikki Govan igh-level communication and stakeholder
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by 2020 Strategic Policy Panel engagement plan;
Report (the Report), released Mr Mal Hyde
ngoing governance arrangements, monitoring
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in December 2016. AO APM OStJ
and evaluation; and
The Report outlined
Mr Michael ction plan, which provides the roadmap to support
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six strategies with 36
O’Connell APM AO implementation, monitoring, and reporting.
recommendations for the State
Government to consider. This response involves the commitment of all
agencies within the criminal justice and community
While acknowledging the high quality programs
service systems.
already being delivered, the Report describes a
Correctional Services system under pressure. Whilst considering the system as a whole, the
majority of the Panel’s recommendations relate to
The Panel focused on articulating a vision of: a safer
the Department for Correctional Services (DCS / the
community by reducing reoffending: 10% by 2020.
Department). DCS is responsible for prisoners and
Within this context, the Report demonstrates a offenders while in custody (custodial sentences
need to provide targeted and person-centred can be served both in prison and in community) and
rehabilitation supports and services, underpinned by an for ongoing supervision, rehabilitation and reintegration
understanding of both gender and cultural difference. support post-release – as required.
To achieve the target, initiatives must be resourced The Department has the greatest opportunity to
accordingly, be outcome focused and include in-built influence reoffending behaviour through the provision
monitoring and evaluation. of high quality rehabilitation, supports and services.
Leadership over delivering of the action plan and
monitoring of 10by20 will therefore be the responsibility
of DCS.
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 7
10BY20 PANEL STRATEGIES
The six strategies outlined in the Report, all of which have
been accepted by the State Government, are:
STRATEGY ONE STRATEGY TWO
SUCCESSFUL EMPLOYMENT
RETURN TO AND INDUSTRY
COMMUNITY
with individualised case where partnerships are developed
management plans for all between DCS and the South
offenders from entry to the Australian business sector to
corrections system to six months improve the employment outcomes
post-release, where appropriate. for prisoners and offenders.
STRATEGY THREE STRATEGY FOUR
PRIORITISING STRATEGY FOR
TARGET ABORIGINAL
COHORTS OFFENDERS
to ensure programs are targeted to to ensure targeted and culturally
groups to achieve the best results, appropriate services and programs.
which include women offenders, All of the Panel’s recommendations
prisoners on short sentences, must consider the specific and
individuals on remand, and offenders cultural needs of Aboriginal
in community corrections. offenders when being implemented.
STRATEGY FIVE STRATEGY SIX
DCS AGENCY PARTNERSHIPS
AND STAFF AND
RESPONSE COLLABORATION
that allows for change within the with other government agencies
current system to ensure that the and public and private sector
target is supported by DCS’ culture, partners that ensure the successful
resources, capabilities and structures. delivery of services and programs.
8 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 202010BY20 GOVERNMENT RESPONSES
In accepting the six strategies and 36 recommendations put forward by the Panel,
the State Government has committed to funding a $79.137 million plan.
The key pillars of this plan include:
NEW REHABILITATION
FOUNDATIONS PROGRAMS
will support offenders who are at risk of will be expanded and include
exiting prison into homelessness, to obtain a focus on family violence, sex
suitable housing. The program will include offending, violent offenders and
targeted supports and services to ensure drug and alcohol dependency.
offender reintegrate well to community life.
APPROVED
FUNDING $I2.513M
NEW
FUNDING $I8.9M UNDERWAY – EXTENDED TO 2020/21
OVER FOUR YEARS 2017/18 BUDGET
LEGISLATIVE
WORK READY, AMENDMENTS
RELEASE READY will support a reduction in reoffending
will provide job readiness training and post- through a greater emphasis on
release employment support to ensure individual case management, access
more prisoners are ‘work ready’ on release. to rehabilitation and vocational
Offenders will be provided with relevant training for people on remand, and
education and training and those requiring enhancements to prison security.
additional assistance post-release will be NEW
linked to a job network provider. LEGISLATION
NEW
FUNDING $9.203M
OVER FOUR YEARS 2017/18 BUDGET
EXPANDING COMMUNITY
SUPERVISION
TAILORED AND REINTEGRATION
REHABILITATION FOR
will include the provision of additional
ABORIGINAL OFFENDERS
monitoring staff, technology and
will be particularly focused on the rehabilitation services for offenders
needs of Aboriginal offenders from through the expanded Home Detention
remote communities. The program aims to program. Funding will also support The
address the disproportionately high rates of ‘Arches’, a 30-bed bail accommodation
Aboriginal incarceration and reoffending. facility in Port Adelaide run by Anglicare.
CONCEPT
DEVELOPMENT
APPROVED
FUNDING $38.522M
UNDERWAY
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 9CHAPTER OUR FOCUS ON TWO REDUCING REOFFENDING
CHAPTER TWO OUR FOCUS ON REDUCING REOFFENDING
he growing incarceration rate and high levels of reoffending
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demonstrate a clear need to implement holistic responses that
engage the broader sector in supporting ex-offenders to live
crime free lives.
ew and existing 10by20 programs will prioritise individual
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commitment, change cannot occur unless each individual takes
responsibility for his or her offending behaviour.
ll 10by20 Responses will support the Panel’s vision of ‘a safer
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community by reducing reoffending: 10% by 2020’.
Sector Change Individual Responsibility
Realising the 10by20 target requires whole-of-sector Program participation will be underpinned by each individual
support and commitment to a positive, outcomes- taking responsibility for their offending and demonstrating
focused criminal justice system. Rather than solely a willingness to change their behaviour. 10by20 programs
responding to crime reactively, the system must act are designed to enable and support real change.
proactively to improve community safety and support
ex-offenders to desist from crime long-term. Change and desistance from crime is
fundamentally the responsibility of each
The majority of prisoners will complete their sentences
individual offender. Through the 10by20
and leave custody.1 There is a need to ensure that South
Strategy, programs and policies will seek
Australian communities are equipped with appropriate
to enable ex-offenders to take ownership
support to reduce the likelihood of reoffending and
over their offending behaviour.
returning to DCS.
A range of factors can adversely impact on the Program delivery will be supported by in-built,
likelihood of reoffending, including social isolation, individualised reintegration support and services where
poverty, and poor housing. appropriate. These supports will take into account
The 10by20 Strategy will assist ex-offenders to become the individual lifestyle factors and family, social, and
contributing members of society by providing targeted community networks that may support or discourage
supports as well as committing to link individuals to each individual’s desistance from crime. Within a whole-of-
appropriate mainstream programs. system focus, the State Government will support DCS to
enable all offenders leaving custody, where appropriate, to:
A range of mainstream activities and support will work
together to develop pro-social attitudes and actions in e contributing members of society and live
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the lives of ex-offenders, including: crime-free lives;
ublic health;
P ake ownership over their journey toward
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Education; desistance from crime;
Employment support; eintegrate to community post-release with
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Sport and recreation; and adequate support to find employment, education
Community events. and /or housing;
The State Government has tasked DCS with the econnect with culture, community and family;
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responsibility to lead change across the sector.
nderstand and access relevant mainstream support
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The Department will be enabled to develop new and services while in community; and
programs, policies and procedures that will lead to
better outcomes for offenders and ex-offenders. ccess targeted and specialist support and services,
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whilst in prison and post-release, including both
criminogenic and general rehabilitation programs.
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 11
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DCS is also responsible for ensuring community safety, especially from high risk offenders who will not be returning to community,
through the maintenance of a high quality prison system.CHAPTER TWO CONTINUED
COMMUNITY MEMBERS
10by20 does not mean being soft on risk.
Victims and their families
Rather, the focus is on the impact that the
Agencies that support victims
delivery of evidence based rehabilitation
can have on managing risk and reducing Offenders, ex-offenders and their families
reoffending. Aboriginal community leaders and members
All South Australians
Managing Risk
Responding to Complex Needs
When delivering on the 10by20 recommendations,
the primary focus will be achieving the Report’s vision, Many offenders have multiple and complex needs,
which is: ‘a safer community by reducing reoffending: including mental and physical disorders, mental health
10% by 2020’. issues, intellectual disability, behavioural issues, personality
disorders, addiction, or an acute risk of suicide or self-harm.
We know that effective in-prison rehabilitation
programs are dependent on a system operating with a Responding to complex needs and comorbidity requires
high standard of safety and quality security systems. the effective delivery of a range of evidence based,
cross-government programs and supports.
This must be further supported by effective supervision,
case management and accountability within the Programs targeted to people with complex needs include:
community corrections systems, which will support
ppropriate and individually tailored case
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each offender to desist from crime and comply with the
management services;
conditions of his or her order.
ental health supports;
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Key considerations for the implementation of all
ommunity and public housing;
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programs and policies will be the potential impact on
victims and the potential for further victimisation. argeted health services, both in prison and community;
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ransition support at the point of release from
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Working in Partnership prison; and
Working in partnership with stakeholders involved isability support services.
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in and/or impacted by State Government decisions Programs must also address specific criminogenic needs
is essential to successfully delivering on the 10by20 to achieve real change. DCS is responsible for the provision
recommendations. of evidence based rehabilitation programs, including:
Those directly impacted must be provided with a voice, omestic and Family Violence Intervention Program;
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where appropriate. This includes victims and their
iolence Prevention Program;
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families as well as offenders and their families.
iving Without Violence;
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Table One identifies key partners who will be engaged
exual Behaviour Clinic;
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by DCS, as the 10by20 Strategy lead. The 10by20
stakeholder engagement framework is further outlined aking Changes;
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in Chapter Three. upporting Desistance; and
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TA BL E O N E : K E Y PA R TNE RS lcohol and Other Drugs Therapeutic Community
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(located at the Cadell Training Centre).
GOVERNMENT
The Department for Communities and Social Inclusion Correctional Services Culture
South Australia Police Change must be led internally by DCS as the first point
SA Health, including Prison Health and Mental Health in the broader system response to 10by20.
The Department for Education and Child Development DCS is responsible for ensuring the safe, secure, and
The Courts Administration Authority humane management of each offender whilst in prison
The Department of State Development and community corrections.
The Department for Child Protection Each contact between an offender and a corrections
staff member will have an impact on potential future
NON-GOVERNMENT desistance from crime. The Government is proud of the
The NGO sector, including service providers great work of DCS staff members but understands that
The local business sector the system must continue to improve.
Academia, key areas of criminology/social science The State Government is committed to ensuring that
Local and national media DCS training, resourcing, and programs and policies
support positive interactions between staff and offenders.
12 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020CHAPTER OUR 10BY20 THREE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
CHAPTER THREE OUR 10BY20 IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
he 10by20 Implementation Plan will ensure evidence-based,
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quality responses are developed in a consistent manner, supported
by appropriate monitoring and evaluation.
he State Government will remain accountable to achieving the
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target through the delivering of annual 10by20 update reports.
he State Government will support the development of a 10by20
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Engagement Strategy that will encourage all South Australians to
play a positive role in supporting offenders to reintegrate back
into the community.
Implementation Steps
Quick action must be balanced with the need to deliver evidence-based programs supported by appropriate
monitoring and evaluation.
The State Government will therefore take a phased implementation approach.
Phase One Immediate Action Phase Two Growing Change
Phase One will focus on implementing action in Phase Two, July 2018 to 2021, will involve
response to recommendations that can be delivered the implementation of the work undertaken
immediately and by June 2018. in Phase One. This Phase will also include
10by20 activity is already underway in response to monitoring, review, and evaluation of Phase
a number of the Panel’s recommendations. This has One programs.
allowed for change to commence as soon as possible, The State Government is committed to
resulting in greater impact. strengthening existing policies, programs,
Phase One also involves building the foundations and services that align with the Panel’s
for action to be undertaken in Phase Two, including recommendations. This will occur over both
research, program development, the establishment of stages, with monitoring and evaluation allowing
evaluation frameworks and review of internal processes. for additional strengthening where required.
PH AS E O N E PHASE TWO
IMMEDIATE JUNE 2018 JULY 2018 2021
14 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020Governance, Reporting and Monitoring The measurement is:
The State Government is committed to a whole-of- ‘The percentage of adult prisoners
system response to 10by20. released from custody who return to
As the majority of the Panel’s recommendations relate corrective services with a new correctional
to corrections, DCS will be responsible for leading this sanction (either prison or community
response as well as meeting ongoing reporting and corrections) within two years.’2
monitoring requirements.
The DCS Chief Executive and Executive Group will Reporting will continue until 2023 as the RoGS
drive change and support other areas of Government reporting schedule is based on a two year timeframe,
to deliver on 10by20. The 10by20 Aboriginal Reference which means that the final outcome in relation to the
Group will remain a major stakeholder in delivering on 10by20 target will not be known until January 2023.
key actions.
The annual update reports will include:
This Executive leadership provides a central point
onitoring of RoGS rate of reoffending;
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for stakeholder engagement and discussions with
other agencies responsible for delivery against the eport on and review of progress against the
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recommendations. target, actions, outcomes, and recommendation
outlined in the 10by20 Report and Action Plan; and
DCS will leverage existing cross-agency groups when
required, including the Chief Executive Group for pdate on any changes to the Action Plan,
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Aboriginal Affairs and the Ministerial Workgroup for as necessary.
Women’s Offenders. The final 10by20 Update Report will include an
Section Seven of the Panel’s Report sets out how the evaluation of the 10by20 project and outcomes
State Government will monitor progress on the 10by20 with recommended next steps.
Strategy and the reporting schedule. TA B LE TWO: R EPOR TI N G TI MELI N E
This document provides the first deliverable: the R EPOR T DATE
Government’s Response and Action Plan. The Action STATE GOVERNMENT FIRST
Plan will be a ‘living document’ that will continue to RESPONSE AND ACTION PLAN HALF 2017
be monitored and amended. 10BY20 FIRST
UPDATE REPORT 1 QTR 2018
The Reporting schedule proposed by the 10by20 Panel
10BY20 FIRST
has been updated to match the Report on Government
UPDATE REPORT 2 QTR 2019
Services (RoGS) reporting timeframes. The first 10by20
Update Report will be provided in the first quarter of 10BY20 FIRST
UPDATE REPORT 3 QTR 2020
2018, with reports due ongoing until the first quarter
2023, see Table Two. The reporting timeframe will 10BY20 FIRST
2021
allow for accurate measurement against the target as UPDATE REPORT 4 QTR
recorded in the RoGS. 10BY20 FIRST
UPDATE REPORT 5 QTR 2022
FINAL 10BY20 FIRST
UPDATE REPORT 6 QTR 2023
REDUCING
REOFFENDING
TARGET
The benefits of a 10%
reduction in reoffending: 5I.I% 46% 4I.4%
afer communities
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ewer victims
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ossible cost saving
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of $20.5 million
N AT I O NAL C U R R ENT SA TAR G ET
AVE RAGE SA R ATE 1 0 % BY 2020
This reducing reoffending target is based on the
return to correctional services data as reported
annually in the Report on Government Services.
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 15
2
Report on Government Services, Justice, Volume C, http://www.pc.gov.au/research/ongoing/report-on-government-services.CHAPTER THREE CONTINUED
10by20 Stakeholder Engagement Framework TA B LE THR EE: STA KEHOLDER EN GAGEMEN T FR A MEWORK
The South Australian Government is committed to PRINCIPLE
IMPACT ON 10BY20 STAKEHOLDER
ENGAGEMENT
supporting a culture of high-quality and effective
1
stakeholder and community engagement. Good Achieving the 10by20 Strategy will impact
engagement helps create better decisions by bringing on all South Australians. The response must,
We know therefore, be developed holistically with a
the voices of citizens and stakeholders into the issues why focus on developing: supportive communities,
that are relevant to them. we are linkages to mainstream services; and
engaging partnerships with other agencies and NGOs.
This commitment is expressed in the Government’s
Better Together principles of engagement. The 10by20 The 10by20 Strategy will focus on those
Stakeholder Engagement Framework will align with who need to be involved to achieve change,
each of the six principles, outlined in Table Three. 2 including: State Government departments,
relevant NGOs, academics in related fields,
We know
The 10by20 Stakeholder Engagement Strategy will Aboriginal communities and their leaders,
who to
include a specific focus on engaging with Aboriginal engage victims, as well as both offenders and their
families, communities and community leaders. In families. Each stakeholder group will be
developing the 10by20 Report, South Australia’s involved on the issues that are relevant to them.
Aboriginal communities expressed need for meaningful The development of the 10by20 Report
engagement to achieve real change; this will be
3
involved extensive consultation, as outlined in
achieved primarily through the 10by20 Aboriginal Section Two. Ongoing stakeholder engagement
We know will seek to build on this history to ensure
Reference Group. the history 10by20 responses are based on the experience
The engagement of stakeholders will also be considered and expertise of our stakeholders.
in response to each of the Panel’s recommendations.
Early engagement is central to each
When developing new 10by20 programs, a program level
stakeholder engagement strategy will be developed, to
4 new program implemented. Stakeholder
engagement will be a foundational element of
We start
be aligned to the Better Together principles. together program design and will ensure co-ownership
and commitment to new programs.
This Framework will provide the foundation for the
State Government’s response to Panel recommendation True engagement with all stakeholders is
32: Develop and implement a community engagement 5 essential to achieving the 10by20 target.
The engagement strategy will seek to engage
strategy to increase community understanding around We are
genuine stakeholders ongoing through the use of a
the importance of rehabilitation and the long-term variety of tools, such as the 10by20 inbox.
community safety benefits.
6
Engagement methods and processes will be
The engagement strategy will focus on building the different dependent on the stakeholder group
community’s understanding of the correctional services We are and the issue or program being discussed.
system and will aim to encourage all South Australian relevant The Strategy will ensure that engagement
and is creative and appropriately tailored to the
community members to play a positive role in supporting engaging specific group whose feedback is being sought.
offender rehabilitation and community reintegration. The
community engagement strategy will be developed in
Stage One of the Government’s response.
16 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020CHAPTER OUR RESPONSE TO THE FOUR PANEL’S RECOMMENDATIONS
CHAPTER FOUR OUR RESPONSE TO THE
PANEL’S RECOMMENDATIONS
STRATEGY SUCCESSFUL Outcome: Provision of end-to-end case management
ONE RETURN TO for prisoners from prison entry to post-release to ensure
COMMUNITY successful and sustained return to the community.
Develop an end-to-end case management program with appropriate performance indicators that
1 ACCEPTED
supports prisoners from prison entry through to post-release.
Recognise prisoner diversity and tailor programs to be most responsive to particular groups, taking
differences and specific needs into consideration. Programs must be appropriately tailored to women,
2 ACCEPTED
Aboriginal, CALD, and learning or cognitive impaired offenders; all of whom require customised
responses.
Develop a transition program for offenders leaving the prison system with supports and services provided
3 ACCEPTED
up to six months post-release, where appropriate.
4 Develop a stable housing model to support prisoners release to appropriate accommodation. ACCEPTED
Ensure assessment processes and case planning provides prisoners’ with the appropriate pathways
5 ACCEPTED
to participate in meaningful workforce activity post-release, through paid or unpaid work.
6 Ensure drug and alcohol treatment programs are an integral part of DCS’ rehabilitation strategy. ACCEPTED
7 Investigate the development of dedicated therapeutic communities within the prison environment. ACCEPTED
Improve information sharing and support for offenders’ families, so that they are better involved
8 ACCEPTED
in reintegration preparation and planning.
South Australian Prison Health to enhance prisoners’ access to health services and ensure the delivery ACCEPTED
9 IN PRINCIPLE
of medical plans on release, for prisoners requiring ongoing medical interventions.
GOVERNMENT ACTION
2 01 7 2 01 8 2 019 2020 #
Implement the end-to-end case
Develop an end-to-end case management service model 1, 8
management service model
Continue to commit to the provision of evidence-based rehabilitation programs for targeted cohorts 2
Design and implement rehabilitation programs tailored to Aboriginal offenders’ specific cultural needs 2
Design and implement rehabilitation programs tailored to women offenders’ gendered and cultural needs 2
Design and implement rehabilitation programs tailored to the specific needs of offenders
2
with cognitive impairments
Strengthen the reliability and quality of reintegration service pathways, including through the
3, 5
Adelaide Pre-release Centre
Continue to develop and implement partnerships with the non-government sector in the delivery
1, 3, 5
of rehabilitation and reintegration supports and services.
Design and implement the New Foundations program Deliver, evaluate and review the New Foundations program 3, 4, 5
Continue to embed specialist drug and alcohol treatment programs and provide targeted therapeutic communities in
2, 6, 7
prison based residential facilities.
18 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020STRATEGY EMPLOYMENT Outcome: Improved employment outcomes
TWO AND INDUSTRY for prisoners and offenders.
Engage a specialist job network provider to work with prisoners to engage in meaningful activity,
10 ACCEPTED
including employment, when returning to community.
11 Investigate the expansion of prison industries. ACCEPTED
ACCEPTED
12 Investigate opportunities for social ventures. IN PRINCIPLE
Develop partnerships with the local business sector that seek to:
uild DCS’ understanding of the needs of business and potential opportunities for collaboration.
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vercome barriers facing offenders and ex-offenders to gaining meaningful employment both
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13 paid and unpaid ACCEPTED
ndertake a feasibility study with businesses to investigate opportunities for joint ventures
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to produce products currently being manufactured overseas.
Increase training and education and explore apprenticeship opportunities.
GOVERNMENT ACTION
2 017 2 01 8 2 019 2020 #
Develop and implement the Deliver, evaluate and review the
10, 13
Work Ready, Release Ready program Work Ready, Release Ready program
Expand Prison Industries and in-custody integrated vocational options with the focus on providing meaningful
10, 11, 12
and relevant work opportunities for prisoners
Design and implement an expanded in-prison Deliver, evaluate and review the expanded
11
Structured Day program Structured Day program
Develop and implement strategies to increase engagement with local businesses to provide ex-offenders with the
13
opportunity to become contributing members of society
Execute and implement the Memorandum of Administrative Agreement between the Department of
13
State Development, TAFE SA and DCS
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 19CHAPTER FOUR CONTINUED
Outcome: Programs and supports are
STRATEGY PRIORITISING prioritised towards offenders who will
THREE TARGET COHORTS receive the greatest benefit.
Ensure that resources and programs are targeted, evidence-based and focus on cohorts which will
14 ACCEPTED
provide the best return on investment.
ACCEPTED
15 Prioritise offenders and prisoners who are responsive and ready to change. IN PRINCIPLE
Ensure DCS’ risk assessment tools and processes gather the information required to appropriately
16 ACCEPTED
prioritise and target programs to the individual needs of offenders.
ACCEPTED
17 Ensure all programs are rigorously monitored and evaluated. IN PRINCIPLE
Investigate and implement strategies to provide individuals on remand with rehabilitation whilst
18 ACCEPTED
at the same time accounting for the legal and ethical constraints that apply to the remand cohort.
Investigate and implement strategies that better target offenders on short sentences
19 (less than twelve months) through evidence-based interventions that are shown to have meaningful ACCEPTED
impacts on reoffending.
Investigate and implement strategies that provide appropriate rehabilitation programs and supports
20 ACCEPTED
for offenders on community based sentences to support them to desist from crime.
Continue to deliver on the actions in the Strong Foundations and Clear Pathways: Women Offender
21 ACCEPTED
Framework and Action Plan June 2014 – June 2019.
GOVERNMENT ACTION
2 01 7 2 01 8 2 019 2020 #
Continue to be a leader in the area of offender rehabilitation by increasing the delivery of criminal programs
14 – 21
by more than 10%
Strengthen the evaluation of rehabilitation programs to determine effectiveness across South Australia 14 – 17
Increase engagement of the non-government sector to deliver rehabilitation programs, supports and services 18 – 20
Deliver, evaluate and review the
Implement the Bail Accommodation Support Program 18
Bail Accommodation Support Program
Design and scope a Community Transition and
Implement, evaluate and review the
Learning Centre for Aboriginal offenders in a remote area 18 – 20
Community Transition and Learning Centre
of South Australia
Develop and implement new programs and services for Deliver, evaluate and review new programs and services
remand prisoners and offenders on short/community- for remand prisoners and offenders on short/community- 18 – 20
based sentences based sentences
Continue to acknowledge women’s gendered and cultural needs in the design of correctional environments, services
and practices through the implementation of actions in the Strong Foundations and Clear Pathways: Women Offender 21
Framework and Action Plan June 2014 – June 2019
20 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020STRATEGY STRATEGY FOR Outcome: Programs, policies and supports are
FOUR ABORIGINAL culturally appropriate and tailored to the needs of
OFFENDERS Aboriginal offenders.
Ensure the specific and cultural needs of Aboriginal offenders are included in the implementation
22 ACCEPTED
of all Panel recommendations.
Develop a strategic framework for Aboriginal offenders. The framework must be founded on a rigorous
23 ACCEPTED
examination of issues facing Aboriginal offenders and be results based.
Ensure that Aboriginal offenders who are returning to country receive specialised transition supports ACCEPTED
24 IN PRINCIPLE
and services.
Continue to pursue, in concert with the community, the development of a community transition centre
25 ACCEPTED
close to country.
Maintain links with the Chief Executive Group for Aboriginal Affairs as a forum for critical discussion
26 ACCEPTED
on issues, policies and programs affecting Aboriginal offenders.
Ensure translation services are provided for Aboriginal offenders who do not speak English
27 ACCEPTED
as their first language.
28 Continue to strengthen partnerships with Aboriginal businesses and community organisations. ACCEPTED
GOVERNMENT ACTION
2 01 7 2 01 8 2 019 2020 #
Ensure correctional environments, services and practices are culturally appropriate and tailored to the specific
cultural needs of Aboriginal offenders through consultation with the 10by20 Aboriginal Reference Group, community 22 – 27
engagement and the development of an Aboriginal Offender Framework.
Design and scope a Community Transition and Learning
Implement, evaluate and review the Community Transition 24, 25,
Centre for Aboriginal offenders in a remote areas of South
and Learning Centre 27, 28
Australia
Ensure cross-government connections are supported and strengthened to deliver on the 10by20 Strategy 26
Continue to promote and support the State Government’s Aboriginal Economic Participation Strategy 28
Pursue opportunities to partner with the Commonwealth Government to deliver on the 10by20 Strategy 22 – 28
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 21CHAPTER FOUR CONTINUED
DCS AGENCY Outcome: DCS resources, staff and culture
STRATEGY AND STAFF are best utilised to achieve the Reducing Reoffending:
FIVE RESPONSE 10% by 2020 target.
Ensure DCS continues to develop a supportive culture to underpin the effective implementation of the
29 ACCEPTED
Panel’s recommendations, while ensuring safety and security is maintained.
Review opportunities to expand and enhance staff training to improve understanding of the complex
30 ACCEPTED
composition of South Australia’s offending population.
Ensure DCS has sufficient resources, capabilities and structures to achieve the effective implementation ACCEPTED
31 IN PRINCIPLE
of the Panel’s recommendations, across both the prison and community corrections systems.
Develop and implement a community engagement strategy to increase community understanding
32 ACCEPTED
around the importance of rehabilitation and the long-term community safety benefits.
GOVERNMENT ACTION
2 01 7 2 01 8 2 019 2020 #
Ensure the correctional services system is contemporary and supported by a modern, responsive and skilled workforce 29 – 31
Continue to embed workforce integrity and professional standards through amendments to the Correctional
29 – 31
Services Act
Deliver high quality training and build staff wellbeing and resilience so that each staff member is equipped to address
29, 30
the needs of offenders whilst maintaining safety and security
Pursue opportunities to make improvements to the Trainee Correctional Officer Program and the strategic learning
29, 30
priorities for entry level correctional officers to support the ongoing development of a rehabilitation-focused workforce
Deliver best-practice Correctional Officer recruitment and selection policies and practices 29
Build staff understanding and commitment to the concept of ‘every contact matters’ 29
Engage the South Australian community through media and other channels to develop a more accurate
32
understanding of offending and reoffending behaviour
22 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020STRATEGY PARTNERSHIPS Outcome: DCS resources, staff and culture
SIX AND are best utilised to achieve the Reducing
COLLABORATION Reoffending: 10% by 2020 target.
Set up an advisory group to develop appropriate mechanisms to enhance service coordination,
33 ACCEPTED
information sharing and data collection processes
Support DCS to commission partnerships with government, non-government and private agencies to
34 ACCEPTED
provide services that are accountable, managed for results and deliver on the Panel’s recommendations.
Consider whether to develop and implement a multi-agency, cross-government strategy to prevent crime ACCEPTED
35 IN PRINCIPLE
and reduce reoffending, including assisting DCS to achieve the target.
The Department for Communities and Social Inclusion and DCS should seek to enhance information ACCEPTED
36 IN PRINCIPLE
sharing at the individual and system levels to contribute to a reduction in reoffending.
GOVERNMENT ACTION
2 017 2 01 8 2 019 2020 #
Ensure all justice agencies are connected to the Office for Crime Statistics and Research Steering Group to support
33
collaboration and data and information sharing
Increase the number of services contracted to the non-government sector and embed payment-by-results
mechanisms into these funding contracts to achieve value for money and to incentivise reductions in reoffending 34
amongst program participants
Continue to look to the future of South Australia through whole-of-government commitment to achieving the
35
10by20 target
Achieve cross-government commitment to the 10by20 Strategy through the continued use of multi-agency case
35, 36
planning and risk management
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 23CHAPTER OUR PROGRAMS FIVE FOR CHANGE
CHAPTER FIVE OUR PROGRAMS FOR CHANGE
NEW FOUNDATIONS
HOUSING PROGRAM
Why New Foundations? The New Foundations Program
Unstable housing, homelessness In the 2017-18 Budget New Foundations will be led by DCS in partnership
and crime are closely linked. Forward Estimates, with the NGO sector, which will be responsible for
the State Government providing appropriate accommodation, tenancy
Research shows that having
has committed support, and rehabilitation and reintegration support
access to stable and appropriate
$18.9 million to deliver services to participants.
housing plays an essential
New Foundations
role in reducing the likelihood The three programs will involve:
of reoffending. Housing
The Program aligns ccommodation: participants will have immediate
A
also supports the effective
to Strategy One: access to stable, long-term accommodation with the
delivery of rehabilitation and
Successful Return type of housing tailored to the needs, strengths and
reintegration programs for
to Community preferences of the individual.
people post-release
enancy Support: many offenders do not have the
T
The New Foundations program
skills to live independently and require support to
seeks to address this need by linking offenders to
build their capability and understanding of tenant
appropriate housing if they are at high risk of exiting
responsibilities, such as: paying rent on time, being
prison into homelessness or inadequate housing. The
a good neighbour and maintaining a property.
program will also include individualised reintegration,
rehabilitation and tenancy management support to Rehabilitation and Reintegration Support
ensure participants return well to community living. Services: additional individualised supports and
services will seek to support offenders to address
New Foundations is based on the international Housing
the underlying causes for their past offending
First, a recovery-oriented approach.
behaviour. Here a range of targeted services will be
The Housing First model, which seeks to establish provided, including employment preparation, mental
permanent stable housing arrangements for people health treatment, and family reunification supports.
at risk of homelessness, has more success than other
Program participants will be able to access housing and
models where participants have to move through a series
associated supports for up to 12 months post-release.
of stages before they are deemed “housing ready”.3
Over this time, participants will be responsible for
In implementing this program, the State Government
building independent living skills with the intention that
will be following best practice; Housing First programs
they will be capable of independently maintaining their
are being implemented internationally including in
living arrangements long-term.
Canada, the US, and the UK.4
This combination of supports will enable participants
We know that a significant proportion to return to community in a stable, healthy way, as
of South Australian offenders, participating members of community.
when released from prison, struggle
DCS will seek to partner with one or more organisations
with reintegrating back to community due
from the Community Housing or NGO sectors to
to inappropriate housing, homelessness,
support delivery of the program. Under a competitive
or lack of tenancy support.
procurement process, the Department will release a
tender in 2017 that will be supported by an innovative
co-design process.
The contract with the successful organisation/s
will include payment by results measures to ensure
that tax payer money is used to achieve the best
outcomes possible.
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 25
3
resky-Wolff et al., 2010; Ridgway and Zipple, 1990.
K
4
Volker Busch-Geertsema. (2013). Housing First Europe Final Report. http://www.habitat.hu/files/FinalReportHousingFirstEurope.pdfCHAPTER FIVE CONTINUED
Benefits of New Foundations Outcomes from New Foundations
Benefits of the New Foundations program include: TIMEFRAME OUTCOME
educed reoffending through addressing the links
R The program will immediately result in cost
between homelessness and crime. savings for the Government as offenders
are diverted from high-cost incarceration to
lower-cost, community systems of offender
educed homelessness with participants able to
R
management.
access secure and stable housing and provided with Short-Term
The program will support offenders to
support to help sustain permanent housing.
take control, overcome other issues that
contributed to their offending behaviour
Increased availability and diversity of
and begin to contribute positively to
accommodation options in the community to society.
support offenders whilst not displacing other high-
needs individuals. The program will reduce demand for prison
beds as participants are less likely to return
to prison due to a reduction in reoffending.
educed prison bed demand and associated
R
As a result, further cost savings will be
cost savings. realised by Government, which can be
Medium-Term diverted into other rehabilitation programs.
upport the provision of housing and individualised
S
Having exited from the program,
support for eligible offenders in a way that achieves ex-participants will be better able to
value for money for the State. maintain employment and positively
contribute to society.
nhanced community safety by increasing
E
offenders’ connection to the community through The program will have a range of benefits
for the broader community, including both
appropriate, stable and sustainable housing to economic and social impacts as a result
enhance rehabilitation and reintegration. of lower crime rates. Ex-offenders will also
Long-Term continue to contribute positively to society.
The program will lead to increased capacity
in the social housing sector, meaning that
other high needs groups are not displaced
from finding suitable accommodation.
26 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020WORK READY,
RELEASE READY
Why Work Ready, The Work Ready, Release Ready Program
Release Ready? In the 2017-18 Budget Work Ready, Release Ready will allow DCS to
Offenders need to be Forward Estimates, further engage with the local business sector to
accountable for their actions the State Government ensure that training and work preparation outcomes
and our services can provide has committed are high quality and relevant to the needs of South
opportunities for them to take $9.203 million to Australian employees.
ownership and address the deliver Work Ready,
In delivering the program, DCS will use payment by
reasons for their past behaviour. Release Ready.
results measures to ensure that funding will achieve
We need to ensure that real results.
offenders have the opportunity The Program aligns
This will be further supported by a competitive
to upskill and become valuable, to Strategy Two:
procurement process to engage the specialist job
contributing members of society. Employment and
network provider, who will engage participants
Industry
This will be achieved by with employment and build successful community
focussing on the provision of reintegration pathways.
employment preparation and support combined with The program will seek to support offenders who are
appropriate case management services. By engaging a engaged and willing to take the necessary steps to
specialist job network provider, offenders who are ready desist from crime; this cohort will be eligible to access
to change can be supported to find employment and give additional education opportunities. The Program will
back to their communities. also support offenders at a higher risk of reoffending to
The Work Ready, Release Ready (WRRR) program find a job; these are people who want to live crime-free
involves the development and expansion of services in lives but may struggle to find employment.
the areas of employment, as well as education and The WRRR program involves three key elements:
vocational training. valuation of each prisoner’s educational and
E
This program signals the need to promote and expect employment needs on entry to the prison system.
prisoners to be ‘work ready’ and contributing citizens This will allow DCS to focus effort where required
upon release to the community. and collecting information to allow a consistent
approach to rehabilitation activities across the
WRRR will facilitate the development of vocational skills
whole of an individual’s sentence.
linked to South Australia’s skill shortage and the State’s
economic growth targets by supporting offenders to ngagement of a specialist Job Network Provider
E
access relevant education and vocational qualifications who will work with individual prisoners to engage in
prior to release. meaningful activity. Participants will be connected
with employers and assisted to gain employment
Drawing on evidence that shows that high rates of
when returning to the community. This will be
reoffending are often associated with complex issues, the
supported by improved engagement with local
program will support a holistic response to reoffending
businesses to increase awareness of prisoners’ skills
through linking assistance to find employment with
and identifying the needs of local industries.
integrated case management supports.
Increased skills and education opportunities will assist
Through WRRR, DCS will seek to maximise opportunities
prisoners to overcome the barriers they face in gaining
for prisoners to be engaged in employment whilst in meaningful employment post-release. Opportunities will
custody; fostering a strong work ethic and developing be provided through the use of technology to upskill
vocational skills. prisoners and to provide increased access to tailored
In doing so, prisoners will be prepared for a successful education programs that meet not only the needs of the
and sustained return to the community, post-release. individual but also address the needs of the job market.
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 27CHAPTER FIVE CONTINUED
Increased skills and education opportunities will Outcomes from the Work Ready,
be supported by the recently developed tri partite Release Ready Program
Memorandum of Administrative Agreement (MOAA)
between DCS, the Department of State Development TIMEFRAME OUTCOME
and TAFE SA. The MOAA will enable prisoners
Program participants are enabled to
across South Australia to access fee free accredited undertake education programs that
employment related training. meet current skill gaps as identified by
employers, which means that employers
Benefits of the Work Ready, Release Ready Program Short-Term have access to a skilled workforce.
Benefits of the WRRR program include: Program participants develop the necessary
skills needed to succeed in the job market
educing reoffending through the provision of
R and to integrate into the community.
evidence-based rehabilitation services in the areas The program will reduce demand for
of education, vocational training, and employment; prison beds as rates of reoffending fall;
this will lead to cost savings for the
upporting prisoners to gain financial security,
S prison system, which can be diverted into
status, purpose, and pro-social connections as a programs that will have positive impacts
Medium-Term on the community.
result of returning to work;
Having exited from the program,
ddressing the link between lack of income
A participants return to the community with
security and crime by providing prisoners, whilst increased resilience and capacity and have
improved economic and health prospects.
in prison, with the necessary skills, qualifications and
experience to gain meaningful employment; Participation in employment and education
continues to increase amongst prisoners,
roviding prisoners with the relevant opportunity
P which results in increased stability for
to gain employment whilst in the community, and, ex-prisoners.
as a result, mitigating the likelihood of breaches of Long-Term The wider community will benefit from the
community based orders; economic and social impact of lower crime
rates and the contributions that offenders
Improving DCS’ engagement with local businesses will be making after being diverted from
antisocial behaviours.
and increasing awareness of prisoners’ skills and
needs across the business sector;
roviding prisoners with opportunities to take
P
responsibility for their anti-social behaviour and
contribute to society; and
nabling prisoners to own their education and
E
employment and support planning for
the future.
28 REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020REHABILITATION
PROGRAMS
Why Rehabilitation All DCS rehabilitation programs are founded in evidence
Programs? In the 2016-17 Budget and best practice; DCS staff members focus on utilising
Rehabilitation programs focus Forward Estimates, best-practice therapy techniques that target antisocial
on addressing the reasons, the State Government attitudes and thoughts.
or risk factors, behind each committed $12.513 To achieve the 10by20 target through the provision
individual’s offending behaviour. million to deliver of rehabilitation programs, DCS targets moderate to
rehabilitation programs. high risk offenders where investment is most likely
They are the factors indicative
of the likelihood of reoffending to effect change.
in the future. The Program aligns
to Strategy One: Expansion of Rehabilitation Programs
DCS currently delivers a range Successful Return Under the 10by20 Strategy, DCS will expand their
of rehabilitation programs to Community and suite of rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing
and the State Government is Strategy Three: reoffending across a range of different offender types
committed to ensuring that Prioritising Target and characteristics.
these programs continue and Cohorts
are expanded where needed. With new funding, in the 2016-17 financial year alone,
DCS rehabilitation staff members were able to provide
Trained staff can use evidence-based risk assessment 1500 additional hours of rehabilitation support to
tools to identify individual risk factors, which determine prisoners and offenders.
the programs they need. The risk factors which DCS
seek to address include: The Department’s programs focus on addressing
dynamic risk factors related to violent, sexual, domestic
riminal thoughts: attitudes, values, and beliefs;
C violence, generalised and drug-related offending. Table
egative personality traits: impulsive, pleasure
N four provides an overview of the key rehabilitation
seeking, aggressive, irritable; programs offered by DCS
ntisocial relationships: isolation from
A
positive relationships;
ast criminal behaviour;
P
ubstance abuse: alcohol or drug use that led
S
to criminal behaviour;
oor family relationships: with parents, partner
P
and children;
ducation and employment: poor educational
E
attainment and unemployment; and
ack of positive activities and hobbies: poor use
L
of recreation time.
REDUCING REOFFENDING: 10% BY 2020 29You can also read
