Some had been youth workers, Defence Force personnel, mental health nurses, and security workers. Others had worked in the fitness, beauty, retail, hospitality, automotive, and trade industries.

Now, in corrections minister Mick Gentleman’s words, they were “highly skilled and passionate” Corrections Officers.

The 17 new officers, aged 25 to 58, graduated from a 13-week ACT Corrective Services (ACTCS) recruit training program on Friday, and had their first official day on the job on Monday.

They will work at the Alexander McConachie Centre and the Court Transport Unit while studying for a Certificate III in Correction Practice.

A quarter of them are women.

“Diversity is paramount to the high functionality of our service,” said ACTCS Commissioner Ray Johnson said.

Mr Gentleman said the ACT’s corrections system changed lives for the better, reduced re-offending, prevented future victims, and kept the community safe.

“I am proud to see another cohort of dedicated, diverse and vastly capable people join ACT Corrective Services to help us achieve our goals.

“The community should feel confident in the ability of these officers and the contribution they will make to the future of ACTCS.”

Commissioner Johnson said he was proud to see the future of ACTCS taking shape through the expanding perspectives and skill sets of new recruits.

“[They] bring with them not only the new skills from their training, but a wealth of experience accrued from their previous work and life experiences,” he said.

“We welcome a number who have worked with Corrective Services in other jurisdictions, but also welcome the skills recruits bring to ACTCS from their respective careers.

“Congratulations to our graduating recruits. I know each one of them understands the importance of their role and are well prepared to deliver a high standard of service.”