Abstract
This article provides a view of contemporary Australia in terms of patterns of offending and incarceration, the characteristics of its correctional systems, vocational education and training (VET) within correctional settings, and post-release employment of prisoners and offenders serving community-based orders (CBOs). A two-year case study of employment assistance for 2,458 Australian prisoners and offenders serving CBOs was evaluated. The voluntary 12-month programme targeted participants at moderate to high risk of reoffending. Overall, employment outcomes were positive with more than one-third of registrations resulting in employment. Employment outcomes varied for gender and participant status (prisoner/offender). Recidivism outcomes were analysed for the whole programme and for a random sample of 600 prisoner participants. Results indicated a very low overall recidivism rate (7.46 per cent) for programme participants, and comparison of pre-programme and post-release recidivism showed reduced recidivism on three recidivism measures. The findings are contextualized in terms of current thinking and emerging practices in offender treatment, with a focus on reintegration as ecological system engagement and integrated systems of support as central to promoting positive lifestyle change.
Highlights
It is well understood that the high rate of growth in the prison population over the past decade has resulted in a large number of individuals re-entering the community following prison release
This article provides a contemporary view on post-release employment of prisoners and people serving community-based orders (CBOs) in Australia and on interventions that have been implemented to enhance employment opportunities
Results are presented in relation to gender, participant status, and total programme outcomes
Summary
It is well understood that the high rate of growth in the prison population over the past decade has resulted in a large number of individuals re-entering the community following prison release. This article provides a contemporary view on post-release employment of prisoners and people serving community-based orders (CBOs) in Australia and on interventions that have been implemented to enhance employment opportunities. It presents in depth the outcomes of one of these interventions in the state of Victoria. It concludes with a proposed model for an integrated system of support, which is considered a necessary element of provision to help offenders get work and stay in work
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