New program gives Territorians in custody a pathway to work
The Northern Territory government is to work closely with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations to deliver action to reduce reoffending and strengthen workforce, with the rollout of the Ready to Work program.
Available to men and women over 18 who are within 12 months of release, on remand or bail, will reside in the NT upon release and are seeking support to gain employment will be eligible for the program.
“This is about breaking the cycle of reoffending,” Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said.
“We are backing programs that build skills, fill jobs and make our communities safer.
Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said it was about breaking the reoffending cycle.
“Ready to Work is about accountability and outcomes, ensuring people leaving custody are job-ready and connected to real employment pathways.”
Key points
- The Ready to Work program is being rolled out across adult correctional facilities in the Northern Territory to support prisoners to build skills and secure stable employment.
- Delivered by Workskil Australia, the program provides mentoring before and after release, with up to 18 months of post-release support.
- The two-year trial will support up to 800 participants Territory-wide, strengthening rehabilitation outcomes and reducing reoffending.
Ready to Work supports prisoners to build skills and secure stable employment, with participants in Darwin expected to be welcomed in March and program delivery to begin in Alice Springs in July.
The program will be delivered by Workskil Australia, providing guidance to prisoners to address complex challenges and build the confidence to remain on a productive path upon release.
Workskil Australia CEO Nicole Dwyer said the organisation was proud to launch the program in partnership with the Department of Corrections.
“We’re working closely with the Department of Corrections, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and the local community to deliver a program tailored to the unique needs of Territorians,” Ms Dwyer said.
“Our person-centred approach is backed by years of experience in the justice space, with genuine local knowledge and community input to implement strategies that work for Territorians.
Sustaining employment
“We look forward to building strong connections with local employers and service providers to help make a meaningful difference in the lives of participants — strengthening communities and boosting local economies.”
Mentors will work individually with each participant to set goals focused on gaining and sustaining employment and will continue to receive support after release.
Deputy Commissioner Custodial Operations Kym McKay said Ready to Work was not just about training, it’s about stable employment, long‑term support, and safer communities.
Two-year trial
“It’s a complete employment focused transition system that starts in custody, continues well beyond release, and brings together employers, community organisations and government to give people a genuine chance to succeed,” DC McKay said.
There will be a two-year trial of the program with participation capped at 350 in the first year and increasing to 450 in the second year — supporting a total of 800 participants Territory-wide.
Workskil Australia plans to engage key industries including construction, mining, manufacturing, the service sector and agribusiness, with participants expected to secure roles such as labourers, factory workers, traffic controllers, plant operators, cleaners and pick packers.
