Workshop Day: Monday, 24th March 2025

8:55 am - 9:00 am Introduction and Opening Remarks

9:00 am - 10:30 am Revolutionising Corrections: Tech-Driven Training and Smarter Facilities

Step into the future of corrections with this unmissable session on harnessing cutting-edge technology and transformative training strategies. Discover how AI, predictive analytics, and digital tools are reshaping prison management and enabling smarter, safer facilities. Learn to equip corrections staff with advanced skills in conflict resolution, leadership, and trauma-informed care to meet the demands of a tech-driven environment. From automated monitoring systems to integrating holistic rehabilitation programs, this session is your guide to building resilient, future-ready corrections teams and facilities.  

  

Key Takeaways and Learnings:  

  

  • Tech-Driven Solutions: Explore AI, predictive analytics, and automation for efficient and secure corrections management.  
  • Advanced Staff Training: Learn how to upskill staff with cutting-edge digital literacy, leadership, and conflict management capabilities.  
  • Smarter Rehabilitation: Discover how technology can enhance mental health support, education, and vocational training programs.  
  • Future-Ready Strategies: Gain actionable insights to implement innovative systems and processes in correctional facilities. 


10:30 am - 11:00 am Connect over coffee

11:00 am - 12:30 pm Workshop B: Mental Health & Offending - Understanding Risk & Creating Safety

Cathy Cooper - Forensic Clinical Specialist, Eastern Health
Joanne Tweed - Senior Mental Health Clinician, Alfred Health

his workshop explores the intersection of mental health, psychological distress, and offending, with a focus on understanding and managing the risk of aggression and violence in mental health and correctional settings. Attendees will develop critical skills to create safer environments for both staff and clients. 

 

  

Key Takeaways and Learnings: 

  • Enhanced Understanding of Risk: Improved awareness of the factors that contribute to aggression and violence in mental health and correctional settings. 
  • Practical Communication Skills: Increased confidence in using verbal de-escalation techniques and recognizing early signs of agitation to prevent violence. 
  • Legal Knowledge: Clarity on legal responsibilities regarding safety, the Mental Health Act, and responding to aggression appropriately. 
  • Safety & Risk Management: Tools to identify and mitigate risks of aggression, including proactive measures and post-incident support systems. 
  • Practical Experience: Hands-on practice with de-escalation techniques in a safe, supportive environment to increase real-world application. 


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Cathy Cooper

Forensic Clinical Specialist
Eastern Health

Joanne Tweed

Senior Mental Health Clinician
Alfred Health

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Lunch Break - Savor, Share, and Socialise

1:30 pm - 3:00 pm Hackathon: Designing the Correctional Facility of the Future

Step into the role of visionary innovators in this dynamic, fast-paced hackathon! Participants will form teams to conceptualise and design a correctional facility of the future that integrates cutting-edge technology, sustainability, and rehabilitative solutions. Drawing inspiration from AI-powered monitoring systems, smart infrastructure, and holistic inmate rehabilitation programmes, each team will present their ideas to the audience for feedback and discussion. 

  

The focus will be on crafting facilities that are not only efficient and secure but also prioritise staff wellbeing, inmate reform, and community reintegration. Think beyond traditional boundaries to reimagine what modern corrections can achieve. 

 

Takeaways: 

  • Insight into emerging trends and technologies revolutionising correctional facilities. 
  • Practical ideas for integrating technology and sustainability into facility design. 
  • Actionable strategies to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and staff productivity.