The NSW Government has reached a major milestone as it brings the management of Junee Correctional Centre into public hands, securing workers’ roles and entitlements ahead of the 1 April 2025 transition.
The Junee Correctional Centre has been managed by The GEO Group Australia since 1993.
Under Corrective Services NSW’s (CSNSW) operational model, the majority of current GEO staff who want to remain working at the prison will be offered roles within the centre and will retain their entitlements without needing to serve probationary or qualifying periods.
Their long service leave will be paid out by GEO and their years of service will be recognised by CSNSW for future entitlements.
The new operational model will also create several new positions, with local recruitment currently taking place to fill openings and additional roles.
CSNSW has begun rolling out induction and custodial bridging courses onsite in preparation for next year’s transition.
Deputy Commissioner Security and Custody Dr Anne Marie Martin, met with GEO staff at the centre today alongside representatives from human resources and Justice Health to outline the next steps in the transition.
Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong said:
“The Minns Labor Government is committed to reversing the trend towards privatisation, and bringing the management of Junee Correctional Centre into public hands is a key indicator of that.
“This change means Junee prison staff will have well-paid, secure, public-sector jobs with a history of service that will be recognised by CSNSW, which is a huge win for staff and the community.”
Acting Commissioner, Corrective Services NSW Leon Taylor said:
“Experienced Corrective Services NSW staff have been working onsite to support GEO officers through the management transition, to ensure they’re ready, trained, and equipped to move to the new operational model.
“Junee officers have shown commendable dedication to their work over the years, so we’re looking forward to having them on board and working towards our shared goal of reducing reoffending and keeping the community safe.
“We’re also looking forward to maintaining valuable relationships with the local community partners and the Junee Shire Council.”