Submission to Parole (Mandatory Completion of Rehabilitative Programmes) Amendment Bill

Summary:

The Salvation Army has a longstanding commitment to advocating for rehabilitation and reintegration within the prison system, we fully support the intentions behind the proposed bill. As frontline service provider, we are engaged with incarcerated individuals and those going through parole, we understand the challenges faced by Corrections regarding staffing, and resourcing. Whilst we agree with the purpose of the bill, legislation must be considered within the broader societal context. Currently, the practical challenges within Corrections may undercut the proposed bill's effectiveness and yield contrary outcomes.

Therefore we, The Salvation Army oppose this bill. We believe that there are already legislations in place such as Section 52 of the Corrections Act 2004 and Section 15 (3B) of the Parole Act 2022 which can achieve the intention of this bill without the potential issues this bill will potentially create.

We acknowledge this bill is part of the government's commitment to enhancing safety and addressing law and order, so if this bill moves to the next phase we urge the select committee to consider incorporating an alternative clause in the bill that accounts for Corrections' limitations without penalising individuals.