In every workplace there are the obvious skills – the experience, the education, the things you can neatly list on your CV. Those matter, of course. But when it comes to working at Corrections, we also focus on the human qualities that our people bring to the job.

As a corrections officer you care about the work and the people around you. You know when to be serious, and when to lighten the mood. You respect the job, your team, and the community you’re keeping safe.

You’re a strong communicator who can prioritise the safety, security and well-being of the people you manage. You can think on your feet, keep your cool, and manage conflict.

We need individuals that can keep trying, no matter how hard it gets. Grit, heart, tenacity – the ability to look someone in the eye and really listen. The instinct to support, the integrity to treat people fairly, and the patience to keep doing it every day.

At the Department of Corrections, we look for people who are resilient, adaptable and empathetic. The work is diverse and important, but we’re not looking for do-gooders – we’re looking for people who can be part of a team, communicate clearly, and stay calm under pressure.

Corrections officers are face-to-face with people in prison, making an ongoing impact to the people they manage. They support, build trust, and motivate positive change – supervising routines while ensuring safety. No two days are the same.

They work with some challenging people, but they’re not dropped in at the deep end. Corrections officers receive full training, with a clear path for career progression as well as opportunities to specialise in different areas, such as detection dogs and emergency response.

We are dedicated to making our communities safer by supporting people to leave us with brighter prospects. With 11,000 people working at Corrections, every role plays a part in changing people’s lives for the better and helping to break the cycle of reoffending.

Having a team of individuals with shared values and a common vision is what allows us to do the good work we do. We don’t want lone wolves – we need team players, who understand the importance of strong relationships. We need people who are observant, alert and un-rarkable.

Take the self-assessment quiz to see if you’re eligible to apply for a corrections officer role

We need people with skill – absolutely. But the ones who truly make an impact? They bring skill and heart. That’s what sets our corrections officers apart.

If that sounds like you, then you’ll fit right in.