The Justice Our Way (JOW) Program is a culturally safe, Aboriginal-led support program for people preparing to transition from custody back into community. Adapted from the successful Waminda model, JOW works with clients three to six months prior to their release and provides ongoing support once they return home.
JOW responds to the high rates of incarceration, trauma, family disruption and systemic racism experienced by Aboriginal people. Our program focuses on healing, stability, and connection, supporting clients to safely return to community, rebuild their lives, and reduce the risk of re-offending.
This program is part of a NSW Health initiative to expand Aboriginal-led, community-controlled justice reintegration support across the state.
Our team meets with clients inside Wellington Correctional Centre to begin planning early. This includes:
This early work helps clients feel supported, respected, and ready for the next chapter.
Once released, clients are supported holistically to re-establish a safe and stable life in community. Support may include:
Support is ongoing and flexible, depending on each client’s needs.
JOW is grounded in a decolonising, culturally responsive model that prioritises:
Designed, governed and delivered by Aboriginal people, reflecting cultural knowledge, lived experience and community voice.
Understanding the impacts of intergenerational trauma, child removal, violence, racism and disadvantage.
Building on cultural strengths, identity, hope and protective factors that strengthen long-term wellbeing.
Holistic, practical support across health, social, emotional, cultural and justice needs.
Supporting clients to reconnect with culture, country, Elders, family and protective networks.
At Wellington, the JOW program supports:
JOW provides support for as long as the client needs it after release.
Aboriginal people experience:
Culturally safe, Aboriginal-led programs like JOW have been shown to:
Referrals may come from:
To speak with the JOW team, contact WACHS on (02) 6866 5280
To walk alongside Aboriginal people as they prepare to return home, supporting them with dignity, culture, healing and hope, and empowering them to build a strong, positive future their way.
© Wellington Aboriginal Corporation Health Service 2025. All Rights Reserved.
Website By: Logo Pogo. Privacy Policy. Terms of Use