Working towards their freedom

8 SEPTEMBER 2025

Every morning, the men at Emu Plains Correctional Centre put on their work clothes, leave the gates behind, and head off to jobs in the community, just like thousands of other workers across NSW. But at the end of the day, they return to a minimum-security facility, part of a unique work-release program that’s helping them rebuild their lives.

Emu Plains Correctional Centre is the largest work release prison in NSW, offering male inmates nearing the end of their sentence the opportunity to work regular jobs, earn award wages, and contribute meaningfully to society.

More than inmates

“Yes, they are inmates, but we all know that they know that” explains Mick Williams, Manager of Security, Emu Plains Correctional Centre.

“But they're people. They're skilled labourers. They're skilled tradesmen and some have exceptional qualifications.”

The men at Emu Plains are employed by a range of companies including Harris Farm Markets, Summit Fencing, Avida Motorhomes, Acciona Constructions, Opie Manufacturing, and Intricate Engineering. They work hard, pay taxes, and contribute to the financial wellbeing of their families, just like any other employee.

“We’ve been involved in the inmate employment program for over 10 years now,” says Rose Smith from Winston Express Haulage.

“It started simply, a conversation with a friend talking about the difficulties in finding staff and then a willingness to try something different.”

She says the program has changed lives, both for those employed and for the business, emphasising that many just need a genuine opportunity and someone willing to believe in them and take a small risk that can lead to a big reward.

A legacy of rehabilitation through work

The concept of work release has deep roots in NSW. In 1876, Trial Bay Gaol opened as an experimental Public Works Gaol, where well-behaved inmates nearing release helped construct the breakwater at the bay. Their wages were credited to them upon discharge, with portions allowed for family support and personal purchases.

That same spirit of rehabilitation lives on at Emu Plains. The men are getting ready for reintegration, and they’re motivated to maintain their progress knowing that employment is a key step toward a successful return to the community.

Supporting families

The wages earned through work release are used in practical and meaningful ways. A large portion is banked for use after release, helping to provide a financial foundation. Inmates can also send money home to help with rent or mortgage payments, school fees, groceries, and even birthday or Christmas gifts.

They retain a small amount for personal buy-ups and contribute approximately 15% of their wage to help cover the operational costs of the centre.

“At the end of the day, the people that we're working with are going to be your neighbours. They're going to be sitting on public transport next to you,” says Kelly Mizzi, Acting Director, Work Readiness CSNSW.

“So, when we wrap around them like this and we help them change their lives, then we are giving them the leg up they need.”

Pathway to reintegration

The work release program at Emu Plains is more than just a job, it’s a structured, supportive pathway back into society. By fostering responsibility, routine, and financial independence, it helps men rebuild their lives and re-enter the community with dignity and purpose.

And for the businesses who employ them, it’s a chance to make a real difference - not just in someone’s life, but in the broader community.