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In the past, Prison Officer recruits completed 12 weeks of training in Perth, but the Department of Justice announced local training as part of a special recruitment drive earlier this year.

Twelve Prison Officer graduates completed a local training course held at Albany Regional Prison (ARP) in August and another 20 marked their graduation with a ceremony attended by friends and family today.

“Rather than take dozens of people out of the community for three months at a time, this year we’ve sent our staff and trainers in,” Acting Corrective Services Commissioner Andrew Beck said.

“As well as boosting local employment, we’ve been able to support the Albany community and businesses, and I’m pleased this approach has proved a success,” Acting Commissioner Beck said.

The vast majority of graduates from the two ARP training schools are people who live and want to work locally, many of them born and raised in Albany.

“Becoming a Prison Officer is a noble endeavour,” Acting Commissioner Beck said. “These graduates will serve the WA community by working alongside educators, health specialists and vocational staff to help prisoners along a rehabilitative journey.”

ARP Superintendent Steve Pedrick said he’d received positive feedback from recruits able to stay with their families while obtaining the skills and qualifications to become Prison Officers.

Previously the distance and time away from home to train in Perth was a barrier for some really good applicants,” Supt Pedrick said.

“Albany Regional Prison boasts a fantastic team and it’s a great advantage for trainees to learn in the facility where they’re going to work, alongside colleagues they’ve already met.”

Applications remain open for Prison Officer roles in Perth and regional WA. Those interested can apply or find out more by visiting the Department’s website justice.wa.gov.au/prisonjobs.

“We’re looking for people who demonstrate professionalism and passion about the important work we do in prisons,” Acting Commissioner Beck said.

“It’s about giving prisoners the skills they need to reintegrate into the WA community successfully and lead a productive life.”