As a Community Corrections Officer (CCO), I work in a regional location that is in the vicinity of two Prisons and a Court, so my days have lots of variety. I have moved through a range of CCO portfolio responsibilities including case management, community work coordination, court advice and parole assessments.

As a CCO I ensure offenders comply with the conditions of their orders, such as community work, educational or rehabilitation programs. CCOs may also attend Court to assess defendants’ suitability for Orders, or prosecute alleged breaches of Orders, or complete detailed assessments on prisoners for the Adult Parole Board. But whatever the area CCOs work in, there is always lots of report writing – so you must like computer-based work!

I love that every day is different, and sometimes when I get to work, a single voicemail message can change everything.

Although it can be a very challenging role, every time an offender completes an Order or even a goal we have set as part of their case plan – I feel a great sense of achievement.

Having the support of my team has helped me get through the busy days. The best thing about our team is that we are quite a ‘mixed bag’ of ages, backgrounds and levels of work experience who all bring a range of life skills to the CCO role. We all learn so much from one another.

The next step after being a CCO is a Leading Community Corrections Officer (LCCO) role. LCCOs are responsible for the case management of offenders with complex needs and act as a mentor for staff. I have recently been offered a development opportunity as a LCCO and I am really looking forward to sharing my knowledge and developing my leadership skills.

When asked why I do my job I often say that, whilst at times the work itself can be very challenging, the contribution we make in enhancing community safety fills me with a sense of pride and achievement. I know I have a long career with the Department of Justice.

If you think that you have right attitude and skills to be a Community Corrections Officer, visit our Vacancies page to access the online application form.