CSNSW Aboriginal staff unite at new conference in Dubbo to drive change

The first Community Corrections Aboriginal Staff Conference has been held in Dubbo, providing a powerful opportunity to build dedicated networks and culturally informed advice for Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) staff.

Senior Aboriginal Project Officer and proud Gamilaroi woman, Crystal Duncan, is co-lead in managing the positive suite of works across Community Corrections.

“The best outcomes are achieved when work is owned and led by the people it aims to impact,” Ms Duncan said.

“This is an unprecedented opportunity to bring Aboriginal staff together for engagement and consultation to provide expert advice on improving Community Corrections performance for Aboriginal people and communities in NSW.”

Community Corrections manages and supervises people who are sentenced to supervised community-based orders by the courts or released on parole.

The conference will include reviewing current data and assessments relating to risk and needs of Aboriginal people under community supervision, guest speakers, creating strategies and providing feedback.

Assistant Commissioner, Community Corrections Sandra Crawford, said the conference aligns with CSNSW’s commitment to First Nations Australians.

“Improving outcomes for Aboriginal people is a priority area for Corrective Services and the Department,” Ms Crawford said.

“We value the experiences of our Aboriginal colleagues and support their commitment to lead conversations and provide fearless feedback to tailor how we work with Aboriginal people and communities.”

Member for the Dubbo electorate, Dugald Saunders, said it is great to see Community Corrections Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff from across NSW gathering in Dubbo for the inaugural conference.

“If we want to continue to improve our justice system, we need to empower the people on the ground to be the drivers of change,” Mr Saunders said.

“These people are extremely passionate about the work they do in turning people’s lives around, and I commend them for being involved in this historic conference.”

The inaugural conference was held on Wiradjuri land in Dubbo.