The ACT Government’s Justice Housing Program (JHP) – set up in 2020 to provide accommodation for offenders in the criminal justice system – “appears to be filling a significant gap”, but can be improved, an Australian National University (ANU) report found.

The program provides transitional accommodation for detainees leaving prison; alleged offenders who need an address to be granted bail; and women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people involved with the criminal justice system. The program’s 10 houses are in Belconnen, the Inner North, Woden and Tuggeranong.

It also helps clients find more permanent accommodation, in public or community housing, or in a private rental. It links them to community services and other support networks (mental and physical health, shopping, transportation, clothing, alcohol and drug counselling, education, and finding a job).

“The JHP appears to be meeting a range of needs, including accepting participants from two priority cohorts: women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people,” Professor Lorana Bartels, ANU Centre for Social Research and Methods, said.

Since May 2020, the program has assisted 188 clients.

Participants said it was easy to apply, and they appreciated support they received on release from custody. Participants spoke of the JHP house they resided in as being “a comfortable space,” “homely”, and “like a family home.” Each residence is furnished, and comprises three bedrooms and one bathroom.

However, the ANU recommended that ACT Corrective Services and service providers improve their practices for collecting and keeping records. Clients also need more intensive support to improve their relationships with family and friends, and to take part in more structured activities.

Emma Davidson, Minister for Corrections and Justice Health, said she would “make these changes and improve the system and how it works for people and our community”.