- 350-bed, multi-security level prison officially opened
- Part of State Government's strategic custodial infrastructure expansion program
Teaching prisoners skills that enhance job prospects is a key feature of the new Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison, officially opened today by Corrective Services Minister Joe Francis.
Mr Francis said the new $232 million, 350-bed prison had a strong focus on supporting Aboriginal offenders, particularly Aboriginal women.
"The prison's operating philosophy was developed at meetings with Aboriginal communities and local businesses during the facility's early design stage," he said.
"As a result, culturally appropriate programs and courses are provided to help develop life skills and foster rehabilitation.
"The prison has a commercial grade kitchen and laundry and industrial workshops, with a number of prisoners undertaking traineeships in cabinet work, carpentry, minor construction work, cooking, small engine repairs, welding and gardening."
Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison will house men and women, and was built under a Public Private Partnership as part of the Liberal National Government's $655 million investment in prison infrastructure.
The Minister said the new Goldfields prison reflected the State Government's innovative approach to corrective services management.
"Over the next five years, WA taxpayers will save $144 million through the extension of Serco's Acacia Prison contract, the court security and custodial services contract with Broadspectrum and Sodexo's contract to operate the Melaleuca women's prison," Mr Francis said.
Fact File
- The new Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison replaces a 100-bed prison built in 1980
- The prison can house prisoners of all security ratings in a mix of cell blocks and cottage-type accommodation
- Since 2008, the State Government's prison infrastructure program has included construction of Eastern Goldfields Regional Prison and the new Melaleuca women's prison, and a 475-bed expansion of Acacia Prison
Minister's office - 6552 6500
