Can you tell us when you started your career with G4S?
I started as a Trainee Correctional Officer back in June 2019, so I'm now in my seventh year with G4S. I completed my initial training course in August of that year and then started work at Port Phillip Prison.
You’ve worked with G4S for seven years and recently relocated to Darwin. What was behind that decision?
It was a great opportunity that really suited my lifestyle. G4S is expanding in Darwin, and it's exciting to be part of that growth. The lifestyle here is amazing. The weather is fantastic year-round, and the city has a relaxed pace. Outside of work, there are so many beautiful natural attractions, like waterfalls and waterholes, and a great food and music scene. It’s a city with everything you need like Melbourne, but just on a smaller scale.
Speaking of the team, what's it been like working with staff who have come from all over Australia for this contract?
It's been a great experience. When you're at a large site like Port Phillip Prison, you're in a bit of a bubble. This new contract has brought together staff from across G4S ANZ, and it’s a good reminder of how big the company really is. We have a mix of correctional officers, court staff, and transport personnel, and we've managed to build a close team very quickly. Everyone's really professional, skilled, and works together well. It's been a great experience so far and I’ve got to work with some fantastic people from various G4S contracts.
You've moved from training in a maximum security prison in Victoria to training for a new contract in the Northern Territory. What inspired you to get into training initially?
Training has always been a passion of mine. I started as a Correctional Officer working in various units at Port Phillip Prison. I then worked in a few other areas such as COVID quarantine, reception and St Augustine’s. In late 2021, G4S was looking to rebuild its training department. They were looking for six new Squad Leaders, which I thought would be a great opportunity and something I was very passionate about being a part of. I've always found it rewarding to help people achieve their goals, and this role was a perfect fit. Seeing people grow in confidence, learn new skills and enjoy training is incredibly rewarding.
You'll be the lead trainer for the upcoming Initial Training Course (ITC) in the NT. What will the training involve?
It's a comprehensive training program. We'll cover everything from communication and de-escalation skills to understanding the criminal justice system and managing incidents. We also do a lot of practical training. I’m a certified Tactical Operations and Baton instructor, so I'll be teaching Tactical Operations, and Baton and Gas. There’s also training on security awareness, searching for contraband, fire awareness training, and an important focus on cultural awareness.
Could you give us a quick breakdown of what the first week of training looks like?
The first week is primarily classroom-based. We'll be covering all the foundational theory and skills. There will also be tours of the local watch house and the courthouse, so you can start to get a feel for the environment you'll be working in. We’ll also have some cultural awareness training to ensure everyone understands the unique context of working in the NT.
What advice do you have for new recruits joining the training?
My best advice is to come in with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Preparation is important, but just as crucial is the commitment to the training. You'll be working with a great team, so rely on each other and make yourself a good team member. If you commit to the training, you will have all the tools you need to succeed. The training team we have for this upcoming training course is great, and we’re committed to seeing everyone succeed.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
It’s been a fantastic journey. When I started in corrections, I was 23, and it's helped me mature a lot and grow into a leader. This new role is a challenge, but I'm looking forward to helping the next group of recruits start their careers with G4S. I know from my own experience that the training is top-notch, and it's something I'm proud to be a part of. I’m really looking forward to this challenge and the G4S expansion in the NT and can't wait to get started.
