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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 setting up a home, managing finances and steady employment, understanding obligations such as parole and legal issues, and finding and maintaining support networks.

There are also a number of support agencies that provide free or low-cost counselling and support for ex-prisoners and their families.