Operating philosophy

The Operating Philosophy and the Operating Model of the Alexander Maconochie Centre is consistent with the letter and spirit of the ACT Human Rights Act 2004.

Whilst they are in prison, offenders are encouraged to make use of their sentence to improve their prospects of living law abiding and useful lives on release contributing further to community safety.

The AMC aimes to meet the objectives of the “Healthy Prison” concept in which:

• everyone is and feels safe;
• everyone is treated with respect as a fellow human being;
• everyone is encouraged to improve himself or herself and is given the opportunity to do so through the provision of purposeful activity; and
• everyone is enabled to maintain contact with their families and is prepared for release.

In the AMC, ACT Corrective Services operates a Throughcare Case Management model, which encompasses training, education, rehabilitation and work experience opportunities provided within custodial and community environments. Throughcare planning aims to establish post release community support networks prior to the cessation of involvement by ACTCS.

Ensuring appropriate security is maintained, every aspect of the AMC will focus on facilitating offenders making decisions to change their chosen way of living. This will be achieved by implementing a suite of programs based on a cognitive change approach aimed at positive change in the offender’s habits, beliefs, attitudes and expectations.