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Prison officers are responsible for the operation of prisons and the custody, care and supervision of prisoners.  

They patrol assigned areas of the prison, inspecting doors, gates and windows to ensure they are secure and observing and maintaining the behaviour of inmates. They also conduct searches of inmates and cells for drugs, weapons and other illegal or prohibited items.

When new prisoners arrive, prison officers carry out admittance procedures, which may include issuing prisoners with uniforms, briefing them on prison rules and filling in necessary paperwork. They also work with prisoners to develop a rehabilitation plan. Some prison officers may also assist in the delivery of vocational training.

Prison Officers are responsible for the supervision, training, security, and rehabilitation of prisoners as committed by the court system. They must be able to establish positive relationship with prisoners and possess a large amount of empathy/understanding while also holding a position of power. Prison officers must often make quick decisions and deal with unexpected situations.

ANZSCO ID & Description: 442111: Supervises and controls the activities of inmates in a prison or other correctional institution.

Alternative names: Corrections Officer, Correctional Officer, Custodial Officer, Prison Guard, Jail Guard, Goal Guard,  

Specialisation: Custodial Officer

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A prison officer needs:

• interpersonal skills, with an understanding of different social and cultural backgrounds

• the ability to work as part of a team

• a high-level of personal integrity

• good communication and conflict resolution skills

• good problem solving ability

• a good level of physical fitness  

• Ability to work under pressure

• Cultural awareness and empathy

• Hold strong people management skills

• Must have the ability to act in a humane/just/courteous manner

• No formal education/training is required

• On-the-job training may be provided

John O'Shea - Governor of Cooma Jail, NSW
(Source: ABC 2017)

Duties and Tasks

• Break up altercations as necessary

• Complete prisoner reports/reviews, work with other health/social staff members

• Maintain and safe and healthy environment for prisoners

• Motivate prisoners to take actions that are best for themselves and others

• Often complete custodial duties

• Observing the conduct and behaviour of prisoners to prevent disturbances and escapes

• Inspecting and maintaining the security of locks, window bars, grilles, doors and gates

• Supervising prisoners during work assignments, recreational periods, sporting activities and meals

• Assisting with the implementation of education, rehabilitation and other programs organised for prisoners

• Searching prisoners and cells for weapons, drugs and other contraband items

• Patrolling assigned areas and reporting breaches of rules, unsatisfactory attitudes and prisoner adjustment problems

• Requisitioning prisoners' clothing, toiletries, reading material and other allowable items

• Supervising prisoners in transit between courts, prisons and other facilities

• Perform search procedures and security checks

• Provide care and support for prisoners and participating in rehabilitation programmes as necessary

(Source: ABC 2017)

Working conditions

Prisons run 24-hours a day, every day of the year. Some prison officers may be able to work regular business hours, Monday to Friday, however, they can also be required to work in shifts that will include working nights, and on weekends and public holidays.

Prisons have strict security procedures that must be followed, both to keep inmates secure and for the protection of prison staff and visitors. The specific requirements and level of security will vary, depending on the particular facility.

Prison Officers are often paid very well due to the fact that they often work in potentially dangerous environments. Some prison officers do not feel safe in their environments due to the fact that they must manage violent criminals. Most work is indoors, though supervision/patrolling duties may extend outside the prison as well. The job of prison officer can be rather stressful and requires the ability to deal with a variety of difficult people, as confrontations often arise.

Tools and technologies

The specific technology and equipment used at prisons may vary depending on the particular security requirements. However, most prison officers will use two-way radios to communicate around the prison. There will also be video cameras and alarms to monitor prisoners and alert staff of any issues. Upon commencing employment, a prison officer will be issued a uniform, in some cases they may also be issued personal protection equipment such as a taser, oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray (pepper spray) and/or an expandable baton. They will also need basic computer and word processing skills to write reports and keep records.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a prison officer with the State or Territory Department of Justice you must pass the recruitment process and complete the entry-level training program. Applicants must be Australian or New Zealand citizens or a Permanent Resident.

The selection assessment includes an identification check, selection panel interview, psychological interview, a criminal history screening and an integrity check.

Successful applicants are then required to complete a 14 week paid training program at the Department’s Training Academy. After initial training you need to complete a six month on the job probationary period. Prison officers who successfully complete this nine month training program are awarded the nationally recognised Certificate III in Correctional Practice (Custodial).

Did You Know? Sashi Cheliah - the Australian Masterchef for 2018 was a Prison Officer from South Australia.

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Material sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Prison Officer; ];
Open University
Your Career [Prison Officer; ]