The Allan Labor Government is creating jobs in our growing western suburbs and making sure we have a strong and experienced correctional workforce with the opening of the brand-new Western Plains Correctional Centre from mid-2025.
Minister for Corrections Enver Erdogan joined Corrections Victoria Commissioner Larissa Strong today and Barwon Prison operations manager Corey Stipcevich to announce new job opportunities were available for the precinct and broader corrections system.
Corey knows how rewarding and engaging a role in the prison system can be - making the career change from hospitality to prison officer 12 years ago and never looking back.
Corey grew up about 10 minutes away from Barwon Prison and his mum has worked there since he was a teenager. Corey's mum encouraged him to apply as she knew his customer service experience would set him in good stead.
As an extra incentive to encourage more people to think about a career in Corrections, a sign on bonus of $8,000 will be available to those who take up a role at Western Plains or Hopkins Correctional Centre. Bonuses of $5,000 are available for recruits across other prisons.
Those who may want to move to the Geelong region for the job may also be eligible to access up to $10,000 to support their relocation.
Applications are now open for people from a diverse range of personal and professional backgrounds. There are many skills that are transferable to working in Corrections, including tradies, teachers, healthcare workers, retail and customer service staff and people may be more qualified than they think.
Prison officers work in a challenging yet rewarding environment with general duties and responsibilities including conducting patrols, security checks and helping people in prison to engage in rehabilitation programs like counselling, education and work.
With full training provided and support to obtain a Certificate III in Correctional Practice, Victorians from all walks of life can have a successful career in corrections.
New prison officers at Western Plains Correctional Centre will receive the sign-on bonus, roster flexibility, five weeks of annual leave and professional development opportunities for career advancement. To apply for a role at Western Plains or any of Victoria's correctional facilities, visit justice.vic.gov.au/prison-careers.
As stated by Minister for Corrections Enver Erdogan
"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."
"Our corrections staff do an amazing job every day keeping Victorians safe, using skills a lot of people learn in other jobs. I'd encourage people to consider a job in our prisons - it may be a better fit than you might think."
As stated by Corrections Victoria Commissioner Larissa Strong
"Victoria's prison officers work in a challenging and fulfilling environment where every day presents new opportunities to make a difference."
