Wednesday, 18 October 2023

Ministers statements: Gabrielle Simmons ACM

Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (12:26): I rise today to recognise the achievements of one of the many dedicated staff that work in our corrections system. I recently had the honour of attending Government House for the investiture of our newest Australian Corrections Medal recipients. The corrections medal recognises the efforts of staff who have provided distinguished service in their home state’s corrections system.

I was pleased to have the opportunity to congratulate Gabrielle Simmons as she was awarded her medal by the Governor of Victoria. Gabrielle began her career in corrections in 2012 as an Aboriginal case manager in community corrections. She is now the manager of the Yilam unit, the dedicated team that provides culturally appropriate support to Aboriginal people in our corrections facilities. Recently Gabrielle has overseen the establishment of Australia’s first dedicated Aboriginal healing unit at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre. This innovative new program and facility will help Aboriginal women in custody turn their lives around. I look forward to updating the chamber about the Aboriginal healing unit in the future, but today I want to focus on Gabrielle. I had a fantastic conversation with Gabrielle, and her dedication and passion for the role were clear. Her reputation for showing sensitivity, dedication and empathy is well deserved in the sector. She is a leader in her community, providing support not just to those people in custody but also to family and loved ones on the outside. I want to again congratulate Gabrielle Simmons on being awarded the Australian Corrections Medal.

All our corrections staff are working hard in communities across Victoria to keep us all safe. They do remarkable work, often unseen by the community. Their work is not just about keeping us safe; it is also about helping people rehabilitate and reintegrate into our community. I thank each and every one of them for their commitment and dedication to making Victoria a better place for all of us.