SAPOs - the reason some inmates never come back

15 SEPTEMBER 2025

They’re not officers. They’re not counsellors. But they help make prison a place of change.

Services and Programs Officers (SAPOs) work quietly behind the scenes in correctional centres and the community, helping inmates rebuild their lives. They’re the ones running rehabilitation programs, offering emotional support, and helping connect people with housing, healthcare, and family services.

And that matters to all of us, because most inmates will eventually return to our communities.

A career change for the better 

Many SAPOs never imagined working in corrections. Emma Burton came from a background in psychology and mental health. Now she leads the Services and Programs team at the Compulsory Drug Treatment Correctional Centre.

“They’re going to be released at some point,” Emma says. “So, let’s try to get them to a point where they’re more equipped. Let’s try to set them up with a different opportunity.”

Annette Calis worked in employment services before joining Dillwynia Correctional Centre. Today, she helps women navigate daily challenges and prepare for life after custody.

“There’s a really great possibility that you are not going to see them again,” Annette says, “because they’ve taken the tools we’ve given them and made the changes they need to make.” 

Kate Reynolds was a nurse before joining Corrective Services NSW 18 years ago.

“I do have empathy; in fact, I am an empath,” Kate says. “We are here to look after people, to sustain them. We are definitely not there to punish.”

Challenges and Small Wins

The work isn’t easy. Transfers between centres can interrupt programs, and delivering difficult news is part of the job. But the rewards are powerful.

“Maybe halfway through a program, you see they are really engaging with it,” says Josh Brown, a former correctional officer turned SAPO. “You can see we are having a win and helping them. That is the most rewarding thing.”

Kirsty Steel, who works with Aboriginal women in high intensity programs, sees transformation firsthand. “Sometimes it’s the first time they’ve been seen or heard. To open up with someone can be a huge relief.” 

Why It Matters to All of Us

Most inmates will eventually return to the community. SAPOs help ensure they come back better prepared - which means fewer repeat offences, safer communities and stronger families.

“They’ve been let down most of their lives,” Emma says. “I don’t want to be another person who does that.”

SAPOs aren’t just changing lives inside correctional centres - they’re shaping futures outside them. And that’s something worth talking about.

If you are interested in becoming a SAPO or exploring other employment opportunities with Corrective Services NSW visit CSNSW Careers