Cameron’s job as a Correctional Officer at Clarence Correctional Centre is about more than maintaining security—it’s about ensuring safety while guiding inmates toward positive change.
His fast-paced role demands vigilance and quick decision-making, from handling routine security checks to managing unexpected incidents.
No two days are the same
Correctional Officers balance structured tasks with unpredictable situations, from routine security checks to handling urgent incidents.
This includes conducting headcounts, searches, and patrols, while also responding to incidents like contraband smuggling or medical emergencies, requiring quick thinking and decisive action.
Decisive actions in high-pressure moments can make all the difference in maintaining safety for staff, inmates, and visitors. “The role requires vigilance and strong communication to maintain order while ensuring lawful inmate management.”
A team you can count on
For Cameron, teamwork is essential in a role where quick decisions can make all the difference in maintaining safety and order. The culture at Clarence Correctional Centre is built on trust, discipline, and knowing that your colleagues have your back.
“In high-pressure situations colleagues step in fast, and leadership provides clear direction,” Cameron shares. “Strong communication and teamwork ensure no one faces a challenge alone.”
Support doesn’t stop when the shift ends. After difficult situations, debriefing sessions allow Correctional Officers to reflect, learn from experiences, and refine their approach for future shifts.
The team debriefs after incidents, allowing officers to reflect, learn, and improve. Having a strong support network helps officers handle the job’s demands with confidence.
A job that fits your life
Unlike many security roles with unpredictable hours, Correctional Officers follow a structured shift schedule, making it easier to plan ahead.
With 165 workdays a year, long weekends, five weeks of annual leave, and 12 weeks of paid parental leave, these benefits help Correctional Officers recharge between shifts, maintain a stable career, and stay motivated in a high-responsibility role.
“The shifts provide structure and allow for planned time off,” Cameron explains. “When the shift ends, the job stays at work, which helps with maintaining a good work-life balance.”
No experience? No problem
Many Correctional Officers, including Cameron, started without a security background. The role is about mindset, resilience, and communication skills, everything else can be learned through training.
“No security background? No problem,” Cameron says. “Training will teach you everything you need... Situational awareness, conflict resolution, and tactical response. Bring discipline, strong communication, and a level head, and you’ll adapt quickly.”
Serco provides a fully paid, nine-week Initial Training Course, equipping new officers with the skills they need before stepping into the role.
The role also supports career progression, offering paid training for Certificate III & IV in Correctional Practice and opportunities to advance into leadership roles like Team Leader, Training Instructor, or specialised positions.
Making an impact, every day
For Cameron, the most rewarding part of the job is knowing his work helps create a safer environment and gives inmates the opportunity to turn their lives around.
"Preventing violence, de-escalating conflicts, and mentoring inmates toward better choices make the job meaningful. It’s about leadership, discipline, and protecting the community."
Ready to take the next step?
If you want a job where you can maintain safety, support rehabilitation, and work within a strong, supportive team, a career as a Correctional Officer could be the right fit.
We offer training, career pathways, and ongoing support to help you succeed.
If you're relocating to the Clarence Valley region, we’ll help make the move easier with up to $8,000 in assistance.
Find a role that’s right for you
Ready to take the next step?
Learn more about the role and opportunities we offer.
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