Dooligar Justice Centre: A Post-Royal Commission Response to Aboriginal Correctional Issues (From Aboriginal Justice Issues, P 185-195, 1993, Sandra McKillop, ed. -- See NCJ-148980)

• NCJ Number: 148985
• Author(s): R Blow
• Date Published: 1993
• Length: 11 pages
• Sale Source: Australian Institute of Criminology
• Publication Type: Conference Material
• Language: English
• Country: Australia

Annotation

This paper describes how Victoria's (Australia) Dolligar Justice Centre will be designed and administered to better meet the needs of Aboriginal offenders.

Abstract

The findings of the Royal Commission indicate that if correctional facilities and programs are to be relevant to Aboriginal offenders and inmates, then there must be more Aboriginal staff, self-determination policies, an emphasis on programs that respect cultural identity, and the involvement of the wider Aboriginal community in the care of offenders. The Dooligar Justice Centre aims to provide these features through culturally relevant diversion programs for Aboriginal offenders under community-based corrections orders. It will also offer personal development, release preparation, and postrelease support programs for Aboriginal inmates. Aboriginal people will be trained to work within the criminal justice system to provide assistance and support to Aboriginal offenders and inmates. Non-Aboriginal criminal justice staff will be trained in Aboriginal cultural awareness, so as to improve the effectiveness of communication and counseling. The Centre will also provide mechanisms for Aboriginal offenders and inmates to undertake community service, personal development, and drug and alcohol treatment in Aboriginal communities. 5 references