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Release

While release from prison is an opportunity to make a valuable contribution to society, for many prisoners it is also an extremely difficult experience. Some ex-prisoners have said that the first few weeks and months outside were actually harder than the time they spent in prison. Coping with money problems, dealing with other people and feeling out of place in society can take a toll.  Many ex-prisoners feel depressed and anxious.

Each prison in Victoria provides the Transition Assistance Program, a series of pre-release information sessions to help prisoners prepare for release. The program gives prisoners tips and information about matters such as Centrelink, accommodation, drug and alcohol treatment services, employment services, legal support and Community Correctional Services.

There are processes in place in all Victorian prisons to prepare prisoners for release, with a number of support agencies available to provide free or low-cost counselling and support for ex-prisoners and their families.