From Disability Support to Corrections

What inspired you to pursue a career in corrections?

I decided to pursue a career in corrections because I was looking for a new challenge, something completely different from what I'd done before. I was also drawn to the combination of structure and variety. I wanted a role with clear processes and procedures, yet one that remained interesting and dynamic, with each day presenting unique situations.
The work/life balance offered by the role, with its 3-on, 4-off roster and seven weeks of annual leave, was another significant factor, particularly as it supports my family life.

What did you do before starting as a Correctional Officer at MGP, and how has that experience been transferable to your current role as a Correctional Officer? 

Before starting as a Correctional Officer at MGP, I worked in the disability industry, starting when I was 19. I worked my way up to Team Leader before transitioning to G4S as a Correctional Officer.
I gained a wealth of skills and experience in the disability industry, but the most transferable has been people management. As a Team Leader, I interacted with a diverse range of individuals and often had to deliver difficult news or set boundaries. These skills have proven invaluable as a Correctional Officer, allowing me to effectively communicate with people from all backgrounds and adapt my approach based on individual needs. In a correctional setting, individuals often have requests that cannot be accommodated, so the ability to deliver negative news or enforce rules is essential.

Can you describe a typical shift for you as a Correctional Officer? 

A typical shift begins with a briefing with our unit supervisor. During this briefing, the supervisor outlines the day's schedule, including prisoner escorts for medical appointments, incoming deliveries, prisoner transfers, and other relevant information. Our tasks vary but often include prisoner counts and cell checks. We also coordinate with the control room to unlock cells, allowing prisoners to go to their work assignments. Most of our prisoners have jobs within the prison, ranging from industries like factory work, woodwork, and metalwork, to roles as gardeners, cleaners, and kitchen staff. Patrolling the unit is another key responsibility, ensuring a visible presence and maintaining awareness of activities. While every shift has a degree of consistency, we also need to be adaptable and responsive to any situation that may arise. 

Correctional Officers work a roster that includes 3 days on and 4 days off. What do you enjoy doing on your days off in Mount Gambier?

On my days off I enjoy spending time with my family outdoors. Mount Gambier and the surrounding areas are beautiful, offering a wide range of activities. One of my favorites is sea kayaking with my family along the coast. Even the simple things like day to day family life and being present with my family is important to me, and it's more enjoyable and easier to have quality time with the extra days off.  The 3-on, 4-off roster makes it fantastic to have those extra days to dedicate to new projects and jobs around home too.