Clarence Correctional Centre will accommodate 1,700 inmates and features state-of-the-art security and surveillance with a focus on rehabilitation to reduce reoffending rates without compromising safety and security

John Laing Group (“John Laing”), the international active investor and partner behind responsible infrastructure is delighted to announce the opening of Australia’s largest Correctional Centre, in the Clarence Valley, Northern New South Wales.

Officially opened in a ceremony on June 25th by Minister for Counter Terrorism and Corrections Anthony Roberts, in the presence of Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin and Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis, the facility has created more than 1,200 jobs during construction and will employ up to 600 permanent staff once fully operational. It will also employ a full programme of community partnerships.

Plans for an official opening of the prison had to be scaled back due to COVID-19 restrictions, but project company Northern Pathways produced a digital tour of the site using drone and camera footage to showcase both the inside and outside of the facility to interested parties. The tour also gives a range of facts and figures about the design and construction of the correctional centre, and highlights the way the prison will operate, focusing on managing, educating and supporting inmates with the aim of ensuring successful rehabilitation and reintegration back into society on release.

Justin Bailey, John Laing’s Regional Managing Director for the Asia Pacific region added: “We are delighted to have been involved with this important project to deliver a state-of-the-art, modern and flexible corrections facility completely focused on giving inmates the best possible chances for their future lives, as well as keeping the local and wider communities safe. Building on our experience with the Auckland South Correctional Facility in New Zealand, we have been able to demonstrate how our investment expertise and active asset management can help to bring complex projects like these to fruition for the benefit of everyone.”