Following its successful introduction in women’s prisons, Corrective Services will next year roll out the smoke-free policy in men’s and regional prisons.
Preparations are underway for the phased introduction of tobacco prohibitions across the custodial estate for prisoners, staff, contractors and visitors.
The move will bring the prisons into line with WA’s Work, Health and Safety regulations and follows all other correctional jurisdictions in Australia.
It also meets a key recommendation by the independent Office of the Inspector of Custodial Services.
Staff and prisoners are being given considerable notice for the transition to smoke-free sites and offered support to help them quit smoking.
“We aim to have all prisons smoke-free by the end of 2026,” Corrective Services Commissioner Brad Royce said.
“The rollout will be carried out in a cautious, considered and collaborative way with a focus on safety and security,” Commissioner Royce said
“Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in Australia, and I’m committed to supporting staff and the people in our care to quit.”
Corrective Services has been working with Cancer Council WA and the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia to phase out smoking in the custodial estate.
Prisoners will be offered assistance by health staff to give up smoking, given access to subsidised nicotine products during the transition period, and be able to call the Quitline for tips and advice.
“By quitting, prisoners stand to save their families thousands of dollars a year and make communities healthier,” Commissioner Royce said.
“The health, social and economic benefits of this measure including improved staff wellbeing will be significant," he said.
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