- Although built in 1914 as a tuberculosis sanatorium, Wooroloo had used its heritage architecture to provide accommodation units that varied by status. Prisoners progressed through a hierarchy of accommodation, autonomy and privilege.
- Wooroloo’s population had doubled over the past decade, and a further 48 beds were planned. The increase in numbers had not compromised security or safety, but additional resources would be needed to provide rehabilitation and re-entry services.
- In 2018, education and transitional management were under pressure, but prisoners could access short courses, and essential documentation was available before release.
- Freedom of movement inside the Wooroloo compound and the relaxed and family-friendly visits centre reinforced the minimum-security atmosphere of the prison.
- Prisoners assessed at the lowest security level could progress to the Dowerin Work Camp. Men from the work camp helped Wooroloo retain its reputation for reparation in the form of civic works in wheatbelt towns.
- We found that senior management had driven positive change. Relations between management and staff were stronger, and morale across the site had improved.
- As minimum-security prisons are an essential element of a well-functioning prison system, the Department must resource Wooroloo to claim its place as ‘Australia’s leading re-entry prison’.