2016-06-23
MS PENNICUIK — To ask the Minister for Corrections: In relation to the response from the former Acting Corrections Minister to questions on notice 4897:
(1) What evidence supports group-based interventions as being most effective in reducing recidivism rather than one on one therapy.
(2) What is the percentage amount for the ‘significant reduction’ in waitlists for access to offending behaviour programs as a result of recent government initiatives.
(3) What is the percentage amount for the ‘significant reduction’ in waitlists for access to rehabilitation programs required for parole.
ANSWER 30 August 2016:
I am advised that:
(1) Group based offender rehabilitation programs have the largest evidence base and are considered to be the most effective approach for reducing reoffending. From a therapeutic perspective, group based interventions also provide the opportunity for positive behaviour change influenced by peers as well as allowing for modelling and practicing positive skills (ATSA, 2005; Berenson & Underwood, 2000; Jennings & Sawyer, 2003; Marshall, Anderson, & Fernandez, 1999, Marshall et al., 2006b; NAPN, 1993; Sawyer, 2002; Schwartz, 1995). A priority focus on group-based interventions enables Corrections Victoria to respond to demand for offending behaviour programs within allocated resources, and assists in meeting service targets.
(2 & 3) The statement that there has been a significant reduction in waitlists for access to rehabilitation programs required for parole reflects that in the 11 months since the implementation of the parole reforms (April 2015 to March 2016), there was a 85 per cent increase in Serious Violent Offenders accessing an Offending Behaviour Program compared to the 12 months preceding the reforms.