Released 02/10/2018
Eight detainees were joined by their family members and friends today to celebrate having successfully completed the Solaris Therapeutic Community Program at the Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC).
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Rachel Stephen-Smith, representing Minister for Corrections Shane Rattenbury, attended today’s graduation ceremony to congratulate participants for their commitment to completing the program.
“The Solaris program provides a secure and safe learning environment to help people change their lives, meet their full potential, and reintegrate with the community,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“In persevering with this challenging but rewarding program, participants have taken a significant step towards overcoming their past drug and alcohol dependencies, and given themselves a real chance of improving their lives.
“By working to address the source of issues behind alcohol and drug use, program participants have a greater chance of avoiding a relapse which in turn helps reduce recidivism rates in the ACT and better protects our community as a whole.
“The success of the program is an example of the importance of community and ACT Government agencies working together, and is a testament to participants’ commitment to turning their lives around.”
The program is delivered through a partnership between ACT Corrective Services and Karralika Programs, with 261 participants graduating since it began in 2009.
Chief Executive Officer of Karralika Programs Inc, Sharon Tuffin, said Solaris graduates continue to receive support through the program following release from the AMC.
“This program not only provides much needed treatment options for detainees, but also supports them to reintegrate into the community post release,” Ms Tuffin said.
“It’s tough on participants – they are required to get honest with themselves to become the men they want to be, but they ultimately reap the benefits of sticking with it, and it is an absolute privilege to witness their commitment to that change.”
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases
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