Last week, Global Skills proudly participated as a major sponsor at the 17th Reintegration Puzzle Conference, hosted by the Justice Reform Initiative at Rydges World Square, Sydney. This significant event brought together a diverse group of people with lived experience, advocates, practitioners, researchers and stakeholders committed to reducing the cycle of disadvantage and imprisonment. This year’s theme ‘Stepping Up’ creates a focus on discussing how communities and systems might change, or ‘step up’ to better support people returning to the community from prison.  

At the conference, Martin Petersons, Global Skills Executive Industry and Justice Services Manager partnered with representatives from Acciona, which included a Global Skills customer with lived experience and Corrective Services NSW Work Readiness Team to host a panel session on our successful joint collaboration to source, upskill and support pre-release inmates into employment. Over the past 7 years Martin has been actively engaged in working alongside job seekers who have been connected to Corrective Services both pre and post release. This engagement has led to the development of strong relationships with Correctional Centres, Community Corrections and Corrective Services’ Employment Programs – Works Readiness and Pathways to Employment. It was through this relationship and pro-active employers within the construction industry that lead to the successful collaboration in securing employment for female inmates still in custody.

The conference reinforces the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative approaches in reshaping the narrative around reintegration. Global Skills remains dedicated to driving positive change within the justice system and empowering individuals to successfully transition back into society.