A report by the Office of the Inspector of Custodial Services (OICS) has found that Pardelup Prison Farm provides “one of the best prison environments in the system”.
The report also found that Pardelup’s philosophy and values were well understood by staff and prisoners and the relationship between them was strong and respectful.
Welcoming the report, the Department of Justice said in a statement that Pardelup was a minimum-security correctional facility which focused on preparing prisoners for release by equipping them with job and social skills through farm and maintenance work.
“Located near Mount Barker, south-west of Perth, Pardelup’s farm and gardens supply meat, fruit and vegetables to prisons across the State,” the statement said.
“Calves and lambs produced by its herds are sold on the open market.”
The Department said it directed revenue from prison farms to fund highest priority services and activities.
“Prisoners at Pardelup and the Walpole Work Camp Annex have a strong connection with the local community, where they have contributed to significant projects in the surrounding area,” the statement said.
“The Department supports four of the six recommendations made by the OICS after its latest visit to Pardelup. All four are already current practice at the prison.”
This included making permanent the position of Campus Manager, which was first established at Pardelup in 2021.
“This staff member has increased employment opportunities and partnerships with local industries by identifying industry skills shortages,” the statement said.
Commissioner of Corrective Services, Mike Reynolds said Pardelup provided a valuable rehabilitative program which helped prisoners transition into the community when they were released.
“Prisoners have demonstrated an exceptional work ethic in their jobs, and this has helped instil a culture of hard work and independence,” Commissioner Reynolds said.
