Main Conference Day One: Tuesday, 25th March 2025

Morning Sessions

8:15 am - 8:50 am Registration and Morning Coffee

9:00 am - 9:05 am Welcome to the Country Speech

img

Joseph Tonu

Associate Director, Work Health Safety, Wellbeing & Security
NSW Justice Health & Forensic Mental Health Network

This session will explore the significant reforms being implemented across the Australian prison system, focusing on modernisation, efficiency, and rehabilitation. Experts will discuss the latest government initiatives, the challenges faced, and the key areas of transformation within Australian correctional facilities. Attendees will gain insights into the broader landscape of prison reform, including infrastructure upgrades, staff training, and rehabilitative efforts. The session will provide a roadmap for navigating the changes, ensuring successful integration of new reforms into day-to-day operations. 

img

Shaun Horseman

Deputy Suprintendent
Acacia Prison (Serco)

img

Allan Bridges

Resettlement and Reintegration Manager Mount Gambier Prison
G4S Australia & New Zealand

img

Peter Watson

Deputy General Manager
G4S Custodial Services (Mount Gambier Prison)

9:50 am - 10:20 am Industry Case Study: Harnessing AI and Intelligence in the Justice System

This case study by i-PRO will explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in the justice system, focusing on how AI can enhance decision-making and improve operational efficiency. The discussion will cover key AI applications, including predictive analytics for crime prevention, risk mitigation insights support within correctional facilities, and AI-driven solutions for case management and data analysis. i-PRO will share how its AI technologies are already supporting the Department of Justice and Corrections environments, addressing both the benefits and challenges of AI integration. Topics will also include the responsible use of AI, ethical considerations, and transparency in algorithmic decision-making, along with real-world customer use case examples. The session will look towards the future of AI in the justice system, predicting the evolution of AI technologies over the next 2-4 years. 



10:20 am - 10:40 am Future Justice & Corrections Speed Networking

This session will explore the vital role community and family support play in successful reintegration for individuals involved in the justice system. Topics will include best practices for community-led mentorship, programs that facilitate family connection, and strategies to improve public perception of community corrections. Attendees will gain insight into creating support systems that encourage positive post-release outcomes. 

img

Leah Griffin

Chief Executive Officer
Lifeline

img

Allan Bridges

Resettlement and Reintegration Manager Mount Gambier Prison
G4S Australia & New Zealand

img

Peter Watson

Deputy General Manager
G4S Custodial Services (Mount Gambier Prison)

11:10 am - 11:30 am Demonstration Drive - Redefining the future of corrections

11:30 am - 12:00 pm Morning Break & Future Justice Community Networking

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm Interactive Discussion Groups

Attendees attend their pre-selected interactive discussions. Delegates can select 3 topics from a choice of 6, each lasting 30 minutes. Discussion groups are hosted by experts and kept intimate to allow all attendees the opportunity to discuss their most pressing questions in an informal yet constructive approach to problem solving. Sessions are limited upon sign up so register for your chosen sessions quick!

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm IDG A: Innovative Safety Technologies for Corrections: Solutions for Modern Facilities

Joseph Tonu - Associate Director, Work Health Safety, Wellbeing & Security, NSW Justice Health & Forensic Mental Health Network
img

Joseph Tonu

Associate Director, Work Health Safety, Wellbeing & Security
NSW Justice Health & Forensic Mental Health Network

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm IDG B: Automation and AI in Corrections: Solutions for Streamlining Operations

Shaun Horseman - Deputy Suprintendent, Acacia Prison (Serco)
img

Shaun Horseman

Deputy Suprintendent
Acacia Prison (Serco)

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm IDG C: Long-Term Infrastructure Planning: Solutions for Future-Proofing Correctional Facilities

12:00 pm - 1:30 pm IDG D | Development of improved constructions techniques of secure facilities

 

·        Modular Security Containment Construction Systems.

·        Aluminium Secure Framing—newly developed high-security aluminium door and window framing designed for Police, Corrections, Juvenile Justice, and Mental Health facilities.

·        Southern Folger High-Security Locking Systems

·        Delayed Decision and its impact on the project life cycle


Moderatiors: Eddie Villa, General Manager, Steelfinne

Don Halloran, President of Southern Folger

 



1:30 pm - 2:30 pm Lunch Break & Future Justice & Corrections Community Corrections

Afternoon Sessions

2:30 pm - 3:00 pm The importance of providing structured mentoring pre and post release from youth prison

Julie Hourigan - CEO, SHINE for Kids
Jess Dawson - Caseworker - Custodial Operations, Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre

Targeted intervention programs for young people on remand, sentenced, or preparing to transition out of custody are critical to reduce recidivism and build futures where they can thrive. SHINE for Kids delivers our targeted, strengths-based intervention program (Stand As One) for young people transitioning out of custody to break the cycle of youth offending in some youth detention centres in New South Wales and Queensland. On release, they face acute risk factors associated with reintegration such as poverty, family instability, addiction, homelessness, lack of training or employment opportunities and a limited access to reliable, trusted support services. By targeting the key risk factors for re-offending drivers with an intensive, holistic mentoring program, we help set young people up to change their trajectory post release.  

img

Julie Hourigan

CEO
SHINE for Kids

img

Jess Dawson

Caseworker - Custodial Operations
Frank Baxter Youth Justice Centre

3:00 pm - 3:30 pm Reducing Avoidable Short-Term Remand: A Collaborative Approach to Empower Communities and Support Youth

Janet Killgallon - Manager, Whole of Government Initiatives Team, Youth Justice NSW
Sharlene McKenzie - Managing Director, Allawaw Aboriginal Corporation

This case study explores the innovative Short-term Remand Project by Youth Justice NSW, aimed at reducing the volume of children and young people aged 10-17 experiencing avoidable short-term remand. Designed collaboratively with local communities, Aboriginal Elders, and government and non-government agencies, the project leverages a human-centred approach to implement culturally safe, community-driven solutions. The session will highlight key initiatives, including aligning police and court decision-making with child-specific considerations, improving bail processes, and enhancing diversion opportunities under the Young Offenders Act 1997. With a focus on addressing overrepresentation of Aboriginal youth, housing instability, and disengagement from education, this program demonstrates how multi-agency collaboration can foster meaningful reform in youth justice. 

img

Janet Killgallon

Manager, Whole of Government Initiatives Team
Youth Justice NSW

img

Sharlene McKenzie

Managing Director
Allawaw Aboriginal Corporation

3:30 pm - 4:00 pm Breaking the Cycle: Reintegration, Mentorship, and Trauma-Informed Care in Youth Justice

Kate Ihanimo - Executive Manager, Centrecare
Leanne Strommen - General Manager, Centrecare
Patrick Smith - Youth Mentor, Centrecare

This session explores the innovative approaches Centrecare employs to provide reintegration support and mentoring services in youth justice system. With a focus on trauma-informed care, multi-agency partnerships, and community-based initiatives, Centrecare aims to foster personal growth, resilience, and healthy relationships among justice-involved individuals. The session highlights key programs, including intensive mentoring initiatives, recreational activities to build rapport, and holistic support services that address complex issues faced by young people.  

img

Kate Ihanimo

Executive Manager
Centrecare

img

Leanne Strommen

General Manager
Centrecare

img

Patrick Smith

Youth Mentor
Centrecare

4:00 pm - 4:30 pm Afternoon Break & Future Justice Community Networking

4:30 pm - 5:00 pm Alcoholics Anonymous – How we might help incarcerated individuals - Rehabilitation and Reintegration

Janet Murray - Former Area A Eastern Regional Delegate, Alcoholics Anonymous
Paul B - Former Trustee of the General Service Board, Alcoholics Anonymous 

This session will focus on the effective management and care of incarcerated individuals with complex physical needs, including those with mobility impairments, chronic diseases, and age-related conditions. The discussion will cover the development of tailored healthcare plans, accessibility modifications within facilities, and the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to delivering care. Participants will gain insights into the logistical and ethical considerations in addressing physical health challenges while maintaining security, as well as the importance of continuity of care during and after incarceration. 

img

Janet Murray

Former Area A Eastern Regional Delegate
Alcoholics Anonymous

img

Paul B

Former Trustee of the General Service Board
Alcoholics Anonymous 

5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Future Justice & Corrections Community Connection – Networking Reception