In January 2024, Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) announced prison wings throughout the state were to be “mothballed” due to lower inmate numbers.

The PSA’s Prison Officers Vocational Branch (POVB) responded immediately, meeting members in centres affected, such as Goulburn.

“We expect to be consulted on issues as serious as this,” said POVB Chairperson Jason Charlton. “It is disappointing the announcement was made without informing the PSA.”

The PSA’s campaign for better consultation over the decision won widespread coverage, particularly in regional centres with economies highly dependent on the regular, well-paid jobs prisons provide.

“We have been assured there will be no job losses,” said Mr Charlton. “We will make sure the Minister and Commissioner stick to these assurances.” PSA President Nicole Jess addressed Prison Officers at Long Bay Gaol in Sydney’s southeast.