Prison Commissioner Announces Retirement

Last published on 07 Jun 2021 

Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin will be retiring after 41 years in corrections to focus on his role as President of the International Corrections and Prisons Association (ICPA).

Deputy Commissioner Luke Grant said Mr Severin has successfully led CSNSW through periods of great change since being appointed as Commissioner in 2012.

“Peter has overseen an impressive array of projects in his time with us including overseeing the largest prison infrastructure program in Australian history, implementing new technologies and guiding the organisation through a global pandemic,” Mr Grant said.

“He is an exceptional leader who regularly shares his knowledge and experience with his international counterparts to improve corrections globally.

“I thank Peter for his contribution to Corrective Services NSW and wish him well as he continues to lead corrections at an international level.”

Commissioner Severin began his career as a prison officer in Germany on 1 October 1980, and quickly rose through the ranks.

He worked with QLD Corrective Services for 15 years, his last position as Deputy Director-General, and was chief executive of the Department for Correctional Services in South Australia for nine years.

Mr Severin said he was proud to have overseen significant changes to corrections in Australia during his career.

“This is not an easy decision but one that is an important step in life,” Mr Severin said.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have worked in corrections in two countries and four jurisdictions and it was a privilege to be the Commissioner / Chief Executive for 18 years in corrective services.

“There have been many changes, new developments and significant improvements during my career, which have seen much better outcomes achieved and I am proud that I could be part of some of that.”

Mr Severin will finish in the role at the end of July.

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