The Community Justice Coalition (CJC) is calling on the South Australian government to introduce secure tele-counselling services for prisoners convicted of domestic violence, arguing that greater access to rehabilitation could improve outcomes for offenders, victims and the wider community.
The organization has submitted a report to South Australia’s Correctional Services leadership outlining how technology could allow confidential counselling sessions to be delivered directly to prison cells without compromising security. The proposal was developed after consulting international corrections and prison technology experts.
According to the CJC, around 1,500 inmates in South Australian prisons are currently serving sentences for domestic violence offences. The group believes providing remote counselling during incarceration could help address behavioural issues, support family relationships where appropriate, and better prepare offenders for reintegration after release.
The report also references international guidance on the use of technology in correctional facilities, noting that digital communication tools are increasingly being adopted in prison systems worldwide to improve rehabilitation while maintaining secure operations.
The coalition said it previously raised similar recommendations with state officials in 2022, but concerns about prison security prevented the proposal from moving forward. It is now urging authorities to reconsider the approach in light of evolving correctional technology and growing efforts to reduce domestic violence and repeat offending.
The CJC also argued that expanding access to rehabilitation services could benefit other groups within the correctional system, including young offenders, by providing greater support during custody and helping improve long-term outcomes.
