Hopkins Correctional Centre (Ararat)

Hopkins Correctional Centre (Ararat)

Location	Ararat, Victoria
Coordinates
Status	Operational
Security class	Medium
Capacity	382 (as at 30 June 2011)
Opened	1967
Managed by	Corrections Victoria

Hopkins Correctional Centre (Ararat), an Australian low to medium security prison for males, is located in Ararat, Victoria, Australia, approximately 200 kilometres (120 mi) west of Melbourne. The centre is operated by Corrections Victoria, part of the Department of Justice of the Victorian Government. The centre accepts felons convicted under Victorian and/or Commonwealth legislation, including a high proportion of sex offenders (50 per cent) and protection or special needs prisoners (50 per cent).

History

Initially known as HM Ararat Prison, the prison was opened in 1967, replacing the century-old Ballarat Gaol. Built at an initial cost of A$1.25 million, an ongoing redevelopment program has included a new external security fence, new kitchen and mess room, major industries complex, new accommodation and program areas, and a new visit centre.

In November 2011, the Minister for Corrections and for Crime Prevention, the Hon. Andrew McIntosh MP announced that the name of the centre will change to the Hopkins Correctional Centre in recognition of the major contribution made to its operation by the local community. The opportunity had been taken to rename the prison as part of the project to add 350 beds to the complex, that is due to be completed in December 2012. A new transition centre has opened, accommodating 40 beds. The facility, once complete, is expected to add an additional 150 jobs to the region, adding to the existing 160 full-time staff at the centre. The Hopkins River is located in the area surrounding Ararat.

Notable prisoners

• Brian Keith Jones – also known as Mr Baldy, released July 2005.
• Michael Glennon, convicted child molester, died there on 1 January 2014

External links

• Hopkins Correctional Centre (Ararat) – Department of Justice prison profile