The program at the Boronia Pre-Release Centre for Women in partnership with Guide Dogs WA involves preparing the puppies to guide or assist vulnerable community members while supporting rehabilitation and reintegration outcomes for the women involved.
The initiative won the Community Partnership Award for having exceeded expectations, enabling Boronia residents to contribute meaningfully to the community, while building confidence, responsibility and practical life skills.
Department of Justice Director General Kylie Maj said the partnership demonstrated the power of collaboration in improving outcomes for people in custodial facilities and the community.
“This program shows what can be achieved when professionals work together with integrity to support rehabilitation and improve public safety across WA,” Ms Maj said.
Corrective Services Minister Paul Papalia named Deputy Superintendent Thomas Heap the Inspirational Leader Award winner for his efforts to strengthen emergency management capability at Hakea Prison.
“Thomas has delivered system-wide improvements, closing gaps in preparedness, equipment and interagency co-ordination,” Mr Papalia said.
Corrective Services Commissioner Brad Royce presented the Award for Excellence in Operational Support to the Emergency Management Unit for establishing co-ordinated, Statewide emergency response frameworks.
“These systems improve the safety of staff and people in custody, while reinforcing public confidence in effective operation of our facilities,” Commissioner Royce said.
The awards event in Perth came on the eve of National Corrections Day on 15 May, which recognises the vital work that is done by corrections workers.
Award winners will be displayed on the Yagan Square Digital Tower and WA landmarks will be lit Friday and Saturday night in the national corrections colours of blue and green.
Other 2026 Corrective Services Award winners
Excellence in Youth Justice Custodial
Naomi Reuben, Youth Custodial Officer
Naomi is recognised for her compassion and commitment to empowering young people, including leading an art project encouraging them to express their identity and personal stories.
Excellence in Youth Justice Community
Mid-West Gascoyne Youth Justice Services
The team improved service delivery for young people, including strengthening bail and release planning and expanding the Elders and Mentor program to the Gascoyne region.
Excellence in Adult Custodial Services
Joneen Mifflin-Cook, Coordinator Parenting Services
Joneen is a dedicated advocate for women and infants in custody, providing exceptional support beyond her role, including acting as a birthing partner for women without family support.
Excellence in Adult Community Corrections
Tara Jones, Director Community Offender Monitoring Unit
Tara has supported her team to deliver results during unprecedented offender growth, navigating legislative and policy reform while implementing technology upgrades and maintaining professionalism under intense public scrutiny.
Excellence in Offender Services
(Joint winners)
Lorena Tati, Assistant Superintendent Offender Services
Lorena has improved rehabilitation outcomes at Karnet Prison Farm through innovative programs that benefit prisoners, staff and the wider community.
Ranjini Sathyanath, Data Monitoring and Auditing Officer
Ranjini has strengthened the connection between clinical services and systems through data-driven projects supporting reintegration and rehabilitation.
Excellence in Innovation
Remote Service Support Team
The team delivered a co-ordinated response to rising community supervision demands through workforce reform and training innovation, strengthening workforce capability and community safety across WA.
Excellence in Culturally Safe Services
Senior Leadership Team for Banksia Hill Detention Centre and Unit 18
The team delivered innovative workforce and training solutions to respond to growing service demands, strengthening capability, cultural safety and community outcomes.
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