Incentives offered to staff new Lara maximum-security prison

THE Victorian government is seeking a new cohort of prison officers to support the opening of a new maximum-security prison in Lara, with incentives on offer to encourage community members to make the career change.

The Western Plains Corrections Centre, located in Bacchus Marsh Road between the existing Barwon and Marngoneet facilities, will begin accepting prisoners in the middle of the year.

Construction on the more than $1 billion facility wrapped in November 2022 and it has remained unoccupied for more than two years.

On Tuesday this week, Corrections Minister Enver Erdogan announced several job opportunities within the Lara prison precinct were now available, as the state prepares to open the new 1,200-bed facility later this year.

He encouraged people from all walks of life to consider applying, stating many skills are transferrable to working in corrections, including those possessed by tradies, teachers and customer service officers.

“A new year brings new opportunities – a role in our corrections system brings the chance to make a positive difference to the lives of people in prison and the safety of all Victorians,” Mr Erdogan said.

“Our corrections staff do an amazing job every day keeping Victorians safe, using skills a lot of people learn in other jobs,” he said.

“I’d encourage people to consider a job in our prisons – it may be a better fit than you might think.”

Full training will be provided for the role, which features responsibilities such as conducting patrols, security checks and helping people in prison to link up with rehabilitation programs like counselling.

Corrections Victoria Commissioner Larissa Strong said a career in the corrections system was rewarding.

“Victoria’s prison officers work in a challenging and fulfilling environment where every day presents new opportunities to make a difference.

Western Plains Correctional Centre’s new prison officers will also receive roster flexibility, five weeks of annual leave, professional development opportunities and an $8,000 sign-on bonus.

Those willing to make the move to Geelong for the job may also be eligible to get access to up to $10,000 in funding to assist with the relocation.

For more information, or to apply, head to justice.vic.gov.au/prison-careers