The Tasmanian Government is investing $19.8 million in new, modern kitchen and training facilities at Risdon Prison as part the Government's efforts to boost rehabilitation outcomes.
Minister for Corrections and Rehabilitation, Madeleine Ogilvie, said the upgrades will enable more opportunities for training and education for inmates.
"I am delighted to announce that Hansen Yuncken has been awarded the building contract for the new kitchen and the construction of this important piece of infrastructure is underway," said Minister Ogilvie.
"We are creating a safe environment to practice learned skills, provide employment experience and trade training which can then lead into work release opportunities and transitioning back into the community.
"Stable employment opportunities, such as employment in a kitchen, deliver greater benefits to prisoners who are transitioning out of custody having completed relevant intervention programs, and contributes to their preparation for reintegration.
"The facility will provide opportunities for up to 70 minimum-security inmates. The new kitchen may also provide training and work opportunities for other prisoner cohorts, including from the Mary Hutchinson Women's Prison.
"It will include dedicated training spaces which enable vocational training opportunities for prisoners, reduce the risks of manual handling with modern and contemporary kitchen equipment and increase meal preparation capacity.
"The Tasmanian Government continues to build a better corrections system, with $15.9 million also being invested in wider improvements at Ron Barwick, including expanded drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs.
"Our 2024-25 Budget, which drives delivery of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania's Future, also allocates $38 million for a new, 52-bed Maximum Security Unit at Risdon Prison, and $15.6 million to deliver the Electronic Security Systems Upgrade Program."
