Prisoners training inside for new life outside

A partnership between the C.

  • 87 inmates graduate inside Acacia Prison

  • 26 prisoners passed variety of small business management courses

  • 61 prisoners awarded statements of attainment

A partnership between the C.Y.O'Connor Institute and Acacia Prison has delivered tangible training outcomes for prisoners determined to forge a new path in life, with 87 inmates today taking part in a graduation ceremony inside the Wooroloo facility.

Training and Workforce Development Minister Peter Collier presented certificates and statements of attainment to students who have undertaken training courses in small business management, financial services, or micro-business operations while in prison.

The training program is a result of a partnership between the C.Y.O'Connor Institute; Acacia Prison's Registered Training Organisation - ASPAC Training (Acacia); and Serco Australia, which has been contracted to manage Acacia Prison by the Department of Corrective Services.

"Many of the people who are studying are looking to improve their opportunities and develop their skills as part of their rehabilitation by arming themselves with valuable educational tools that will assist them in building a brighter future," Mr Collier said.

"The State's workforce is continuing to grow and the Liberal-National Government is committed to training and expanding the workforce.  This initiative allows unskilled or semi-skilled people, many who speak English as a second language, to make the most of economic and social opportunities now and in the future.

"As part of their training, some of the students prepared business plans to help set up businesses and others plan more training after leaving Acacia."

Today's graduation ceremony is the third in the five years since Serco Australia Pty Ltd was contracted by the State Government to operate Acacia, which can house 1,000 prisoners.

      Fact File

  • Training program is a partnership between C.Y.O'Connor Institute, ASPAC Training (Acacia) and Serco Australia

  • 2011 is the fifth year Serco Australia has held the management contract for Acacia Prison

Minister's office - 9213 7150