The Rules, Directives and the Instructions together form the majority of the overall system of prisons and prisoner management that is derived from the Prisons Act 1981.
The rules are made by the head of the Department, formerly the Director General, with approval from the Minister and largely cover prisoner and prison officer conduct.
From 1 February 2006, the title of the head of the Department of Corrective Services became the “Commissioner”, however, the Director General's Rules will still be known as such, pending a rollout of a simplified, consistent policy and procedures framework later this year.
The Director General’s Rules deal with matters such as classification/placement of prisoners and visits, some details of which are required to be enshrined in rules.
On the other hand, the policy directives, which are issued by the head of the Department and do not require Ministerial approval, cover procedural and administrative matters and welfare issues. Areas covered by the policy directives include search procedures, attendance at funerals, access to information and dietary and nutritional requirements.
Each of the rules and policy directives are required to be reviewed on an annual basis and this review is coordinated by the Adult Custodial division. Any enquiries regarding the rules and policy directives should be directed to the Adult Custodial Division.
Contact details
Adult Custodial Division
Level 1
141 St Georges Terrace
PERTH WA 6000
Telephone: (08) 9264 1381
Facsimile: (08) 9264 1370
Contact Adult Custodial
