The Finocchiaro CLP Government's Corrections Infrastructure Master Plan is advancing ahead of schedule as part of its commitment to reduce crime, improve community safety, and support Corrections officers, police and the courts.
Minister for Corrections Gerard Maley said the government was accelerating key projects while focusing on safety and operational standards.
"Our government is fast-tracking projects to expand capacity, to manage the more than 400 additional prisoners who have entered the Corrections system since the August election," he said.
"Work continues at the Berrimah Correctional Centre, taking the total bed count to more than 160 beds since opening in December.
"One of the most pressing challenges we face is the significant gap between the rising prisoner population and our ability to recruit and train corrections staff at the pace required to meet this demand.
"We acknowledge this is putting significant pressure on the corrections system, including police watch houses.
"Today, I have visited the Darwin Watch House, Palmerston Watch House, Berrimah Correctional Centre and Darwin Correctional Centre.
"We are listening to the workforce, and I have made it clear to Corrections Commissioner Matthew Varley that all options are on the table to address workforce challenges."
The CLP Government is expanding capacity and bolstering the workforce using the following measures:
One of the Territory's largest Corrections recruit squads is currently in training and will graduate in April.Additional recruit squads will commence training in the coming months.A 96-bed modular sector at Alice Springs Correctional Centre is on track to come online at the end of this week.
Mr Maley said this progress was being achieved despite the significant challenges inherited after eight years of neglect under the previous Labor government.
"This is a complex project made even harder by Labor's inaction on curbing crime, supporting corrections, and listening to the community," he said.
"We're strengthening corrections capacity and addressing workforce challenges to ensure Territorians are protected, and the justice system operates effectively.
"I want to thank the tradies, contractors, and fire engineers for their tireless efforts, including working through the Christmas and New Year period.
"I also want to acknowledge the dedication of our Corrections officers, police, and court staff, who are working collaboratively to tackle these challenges.
"This isn't just a corrections issue - it's a justice system issue. We are working across departments to deliver real solutions that support our officers, strengthen infrastructure, meet increasing demands, and ensure community safety."
