As outlined in the Corrections Management (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Detainee and Offender) Policy 2018, ACTCS is committed to addressing the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT justice system.

The programs and services specifically designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander detainees are:

Elders Visitation Program

Ngunnawal Elders and other respected local community leaders from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia make formal monthly visits. The leaders provide cultural advice and support to detainees and staff.

Elders Healing Program

Local Elders who have experience and qualifications in social work and/or psychology suggest strategies for detainees who have demonstrated social/emotional distress whilst incarcerated.

Elders Yarning Circle Program (Men)

On a weekly basis, selected Indigenous male community leaders lead a culturally safe group discussion on problems Indigenous men have inside and outside the AMC. Strategies are presented to deal with these problems. Contemporary community issues can also be discussed.

Elders Yarning Circle Program (Women)

On a weekly basis, selected Indigenous female community leaders lead a culturally safe group discussion on problems Indigenous women have inside and outside the AMC. Strategies are presented to deal with these problems.

Elders Indigenous Art Program (Men)

Delivered by the CIT Yurauna Centre on weekly basis, this program teaches Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men about traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art. Participants can attain a Certificate II in Cultural Art and sell their artwork through the ACTCS Indigenous Detainee Art Catalogue or gift to family and friends.

Elders Indigenous Art Program (Women)

Delivered on a weekly basis by a local Aboriginal female artist, this program aims to support the healing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women through creative practice. Participants explore art and culture through facilitated activities.

Elders Music Expression Program (Men & Women)

Delivered on a weekly basis by a Community Elder, this program is aimed at Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women interested in learning about culture through traditional and contemporary Indigenous dance routines. Participants learn about the importance dance plays in ceremony. There is the possibility of performing dances at future events at the AMC.

Indigenous Chaplaincy Service (Men)

This is facilitated on a tri-weekly basis by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander chaplain.

CALM Program (Men)

This is facilitated by AMC Education and is focused on cultural studies and land management.

Indigenous Women’s Leadership & Wellbeing Program

Facilitated by Clybucca Dreaming on a weekly basis, this program provides leadership training to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and aims to empower them to take back control of their lives and take on a leadership role in the lives of their family and community. It covers pre-release planning, post-release support navigation and ongoing support from Clybucca Dreaming.

NAIDOC AMC Family Day

This is an annual day of family activities to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.

“TOTEMS” Virtual Art Exhibition (Belconnen Arts)

This is a yearly exhibition of detainee artworks created though the Elders Indigenous Art Program.

NAIDOC Community Virtual Art Exhibition 2020

This is a yearly exhibition of detainee artwork created through the Elders Indigenous Art Program.