Work Release

What is Work Release?

Established in 1969, Work Release has helped countless individuals in custody gain real-world work experience and develop job-readiness skills. By allowing approved inmates to leave correctional centres for employment, Work Release provides a pathway for reintegration while ensuring participants return to their facilities after each shift.

Candidates are assessed for their suitability to participate in work release, ensuring they have successfully completed their criminogenic programs pathway to address their offending behaviour, maintained good behaviour while in custody, and are in the final two years of their sentence. Before being equipped with an ankle bracelet for monitoring, they prepare for employment by having a resume, cover letter, and tax file number. Jobs are secured through partnerships with businesses, with Offender Employment Officers providing ongoing support throughout the process.

Why it matters.

We believe in new beginnings. Through Work Release, individuals gain:

• Valuable skills and qualifications
• A sense of purpose and responsibility
• A smoother transition back into the community

And employers? They gain more than just a reliable worker, they become part of a powerful story of rehabilitation and growth.

The benefits for your business.

• Motivated employees - participants are eager to prove themselves and contribute meaningfully.
• Social impact - support rehabilitation, reduce reoffending, and help create safer communities.
• Team enrichment - many employers report a positive shift in workplace culture, greater empathy, stronger teamwork, and a renewed sense of purpose.
• Ongoing support - we provide guidance every step of the way to ensure a smooth and successful partnership.

How does it work?

Getting started is simple. We will provide you with a candidate profile so you can decide whether you would like to move forward with an interview. The Corrective Services NSW Work Readiness team supervises all interviews to ensure a supportive and secure process. We take care of all the necessary checks to match the right candidate with the right employer—minimising risk and maximising success.

What about shift work?

We understand that flexibility is key. Start and finish times can be tailored to suit your business needs, depending on transport options available at the correctional centre where the individual resides. We will work with you to find a schedule that fits.