Ministers statements: corrections system
Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice, Minister for Victim Support) (14:15): I rise to update the chamber on the recent release of the Productivity Commission’s 2024 Report on Government Services for corrections. The report focuses on the efficiency and effectiveness of the provision of government services across Australia, including correctional services. Our government has invested over $4.7 billion of new funding into the Victorian corrections system. The Report on Government Services shows that Victoria’s strong history of investment in the corrections system is paying dividends. Victoria continues have one of the lowest rates of imprisonment in the country, at 125 people in custody per 100,000 adults – well below the national average of 200. Our strong investment in correctional infrastructure means our prison capacity exceeds demand, meaning we are well placed for the future. Our investment in reform and rehabilitation also means that we have the highest prisoner employment rate and the second-highest rate of prisoners in education and training across the country. These investments are working to break the cycle of offending and make Victorians safer. Reoffending rates remain below the national average and the completion rate of community correction orders in Victoria has increased. Victoria continues to have the lowest rate of return to corrections for people who complete their community-based orders.
Our focus on crime prevention and addressing offending behaviour is working. Victoria’s corrections system is also efficient and cost effective. Our corrections system has the equal lowest per capita expenditure in Australia, almost 20 per cent below the national average. Victoria’s corrections system is delivering positive outcomes. We are holding offenders to account while supporting them to find better pathways for rehabilitation. Our investments are making Victoria safer.