This presentation explores how architecture can drive positive change in challenging environments, using the redevelopment of the Kurlana Tapa Youth Justice Centre in South Australia as a case study. Originally built in 2011, the centre is recognised for its high-quality secure campus design for young people in detention. However, a policy shift and the closure of an adjacent facility created the need for additional accommodation. Rather than a simple expansion, this project became an opportunity to enhance the model of care through thoughtful architectural solutions. The session will cover the design process, key principles, and challenges of balancing security, rehabilitation needs, and budget constraints, concluding with a visual showcase of the completed redevelopment. 

This session examines the evolving standards and innovations in prison design, focusing on the balance between security and rehabilitation in new correctional builds. Experts will discuss design strategies that facilitate positive interactions, incorporate technology for safer monitoring, and prioritise spaces for education, mental health services, and recreation. Explore how architectural choices—from modular cells to outdoor access—can improve inmate well-being, support staff efficiency, and contribute to a more holistic correctional approach aligned with modern correctional philosophies. 

Craig Blewitt

Associate Director and Corrections Sector Lead
Guymer Bailey Architects Pty Ltd

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Marian Long

Principal Landscape Architect.
Guymer Bailey Architects Pty Ltd

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Effective collaboration between Community Corrections and Mental Health Services is essential for reducing recidivism and improving outcomes for individuals with complex mental health needs. This session will explore the evolution of partnerships between these two critical services, focusing on initiatives that have fostered improved communication, streamlined referral pathways, and timely interventions. Gain insights into innovative approaches that have enhanced mutual understanding and professional relationships, including reflective practice, risk review meetings, and education programmes.

Cathy Cooper

Forensic Clinical Specialist
Eastern Health

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This session will focus on the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences (as a proxy for trauma) for kids in the youth justice system and what this means for the issue of violent, repeat offending, which regularly appears in the media; The importance of training frontline staff to understand the impact of trauma, and what happens if we don't; What would implementing trauma-informed practice in youth justice look like; and What can we realistically deliver in terms of a trauma-informed approach. 

Anthony M Jamieson

PhD Candidate & Manager Youth Justice Training, Queensland
Griffith University & Department of Children Youth Justice and Multicultural Affairs

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This session will explore the unique challenges faced by women offenders in the criminal justice system, focusing on factors such as trauma, socio-economic issues, and mental health concerns. Participants will learn about evidence-based practices, including trauma-informed care and gender-responsive programming, aimed at promoting rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. The discussion will also highlight the importance of support networks, including community organisations and family connections, in facilitating successful reintegration. By enhancing understanding of the complexities surrounding women offenders, attendees will gain insights into effective interventions and support systems that foster positive outcomes for this population.  

This session will discuss initiatives that bring lived experience voices back into the prison system to support employment and reintegration outcomes. Participants will learn about the power of collaboration and consultation between Corrections and people with lived experience in project development, design and delivery. The discussion will feature Corrections and lived experience perspectives in developing and leading innovative practice in corrections. Preliminary findings on the impact of these initiatives will be discussed. 

Jenna Harrison

Senior Projects Manager Offender Services and Reintegration
Corrections Victoria

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Luke Anderson

Founder
Fair Collective

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Zachary Andrew Jones

Director
Melbourne Safety Solutions

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This interactive session invites participants to engage with individuals who have firsthand experience navigating the justice system. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about what can be done to improve the current justice framework, explore alternative justice systems, and discover what strategies and support mechanisms have been most beneficial them.

Stephanie Maher

Harm Reduction Worker, Access Heath
The Salavation Army Australia

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Pattie Phillips

Lived Experience Co-Ordinator
Prison Network

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Jenna Harrison

Senior Projects Manager Offender Services and Reintegration
Corrections Victoria

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