Today the Minister for Corrective Services joined the Director General and Commissioner to congratulate Superintendent Sue Rowley, her team and Cyrenian House on the successes of Wandoo Rehabilitation Prison.
In its two years of operation more than 100 women have graduated from the program, 52 of whom are now in the community having successfully completed or working toward completion of their parole.
The innovative facility plays a key role in breaking the cycle of addiction related crime.
Director General Dr Adam Tomison said the Department was highly aware of the correlation between drug use and crime and that it is a significant issue confronting the justice system.
“There are many inspirational stories of hope and fresh starts here at Wandoo, and it’s fantastic to see so many of our graduates have managed to stay on the straight and narrow following their release,” Dr Tomison said.
In their exit interviews many of the women commended the facility for keeping drugs and contraband out and said it makes them feel safe and secure.
Corrective Services Commissioner Tony Hassall applauded the facility’s achievements and said WA’s unique standard for women in prison is leading the way in Australia.
"We have impressed senior leaders from Canberra with our innovative philosophy, which is no longer male-centric and acknowledges the need for good gender based responses to the special needs of women in custody," Commissioner Hassall said.
