Queensland Corrective Services to employ 800 locals at new Gatton facility

A huge new facility just outside of Ipswich will offer up to 800 jobs before its centre opens in 2024.

Aerial footage of existing Southern Queensland Correctional Centre. Photo: QCS

More than 800 jobs will become available as a new men’s correctional centre in the Lockyer Valley nears completion.

Queensland Corrective Services announced they would recruit the huge number of jobs for the Gatton facility, set to open in 2024.

The centre, the largest of its kind in the state, will focus on rehabilitation in an effort to reduce reoffending, with services including mental health support, drug and alcohol rehab services and other programs to be delivered to inmates.

Queensland Corrective Services will be hiring custodial correctional officers, trade instructors, psychologists, administration officers, health workers and case managers, among other roles and have said employment opportunities at the facility come with great benefits.

Acting Deputy Commissioner, Organisational Capability for Queensland Corrective Services, Adam Black said the facility will be hosts to workers from all walks of life.

“Operating a facility of this size will need a substantial workforce and we have hundreds of job opportunities for local people,” he said.

“There is not a one-size-fits-all approach. We encourage people from all walks of life to consider a career in corrections as many skills are transferable from other industries.

“If you would like to use your skills to contribute to safer communities, make a real difference to others’ lives, be a part of a supportive team and enjoy flexible working arrangements, we may have a role for you.”

Queensland Corrective Services are set to sponsor the fireworks show at the Gatton Show this weekend and will be available for discussion about the new facility.

The new facility will join the women’s correctional facility, which opened in 2012 and Assistant Commissioner of Custodial Operations Southern Region, Joel Smith said the opening of the facility will only boost their support of the community.

“We have been a part of the Lockyer Valley and surrounding communities for more than 10 years now, since the women’s correctional centre opened in 2012,” he said.

“About 300 people are employed now at the women’s facility and when the men’s centre opens in 2024, there will be more than 1100 people working in the precinct, making us one of the largest employers in the region.

“We’re looking forward to the fireworks this weekend at the Gatton Show and are proud to sponsor them.

“We will have a stand where people can come and have a chat to find out more about our new centre, what we do, and how they can join us in keeping Queensland communities safe.

“Our commitment to the community will continue to grow as we build our presence within the Lockyer Valley and support the local economy through employment and supply chain opportunities.”

For more information, go to corrections.qld.gov.au