Speeches
Friday, 05 December 2025
Morning Tea to mark 50 years of the Department for Correctional Services Volunteers Unit
Rod and I warmly welcome you all to Government House.
As Correctional Services volunteers, you support some of South Australia's most vulnerable people. Today, it is our pleasure to recognise and celebrate your efforts.
As Governor I’ve had the opportunity to witness the skill and dedication of corrections staff and volunteers, both during a visit with Rod to Adelaide Women’s Prison and by investing recipients of the Australian Corrections Medal here at Government House.
This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the Department for Correctional Services Volunteer Unit.
What began in 1975 as a small group of committed individuals has grown into a state-wide network of over 100 volunteers who provide meaningful support to people in custody and under community supervision.
I was impressed to learn that, over the past decade alone, departmental volunteers have undertaken more than 25,000 support activities, comprising over 100,000 hours of service.
This is a profound contribution to the rehabilitation and reintegration of people who have been in contact with our justice system.
As volunteers, your work is varied and broad.
You support people to develop a range of new or enhanced life skills including how to drive, manage a budget, and socialise with others.
You also offer emotional assistance through activities like mentoring and art therapy, and practical assistance which helps people to stay connected and on track with their rehabilitation efforts.
Some of you have volunteered for significant lengths of time, and I thank you for your ongoing commitment to this work.
It takes a special kind of person to choose to volunteer in a prison environment.
You navigate emotionally demanding situations, strict security protocols, and the complex needs of people who have often experienced trauma, disadvantage and disruption.
No doubt the rewards can also be great: witnessing people’s personal growth, helping them to break cycles of reoffending, and supporting them to rebuild their lives and reconnect with community.
I thank you all for helping people in custody to restore their sense of dignity, of purpose, and hope for the future.
I also thank the Department for Correctional Services for coordinating and supporting the Volunteer Unit over these 50 years, ensuring that volunteer engagement is safe, effective and aligned with best practice.
Volunteers, through your dedication, you are building a safer, more connected and more compassionate community for all.
Rod and I wish you all the best for your continued important work as volunteers.