Hirusha Herath

As a Forensic Case Worker (FCW) in the ReConnect Program, I provide high-intensity, pre- and post-release case management support to high-risk and complex offenders exiting Victorian correctional facilities.

ReConnect is a Corrections Victoria-funded reintegration initiative aimed at reducing recidivism by supporting successful transitions into the community and addressing key criminogenic and psychosocial risk factors.

The role involves close collaboration with justice system stakeholders, including Community Correctional Services, Parole Officers, Prison Reintegration Staff, Mental Health Providers, and other community services. My caseload primarily includes male participants, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander individuals, Serious Violent Offenders (SVO), Registered Sex Offenders (RSO) and Sex Offenders (SO) who often present with complex needs including mental health issues, substance use, trauma, homelessness, and social isolation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver pre- and post-release reintegration support to high-risk offenders under parole, Community Correction Orders (CCO), and straight release.
• Conduct intake assessments, risk assessments, transition plans, and safety plans within strict timeframes.
• Provide intensive case management and support, linking clients with housing, mental health, AOD, legal and social services.
• Proactively monitor and promote ongoing engagement post-release, ensuring adherence to individual goals and reducing risk of reoffending.
• Maintain accurate, detailed case notes and collaborate closely with Parole Officers, courts, and community stakeholders.
• Build resilience and support clients to self-manage their reintegration needs post-support.

Key Achievements:

• Supported successful community reintegration of high-risk participants, with reduced rates of disengagement.
• Contributed to the delivery of culturally responsive services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants.

Key Responsibilities:

• Delivered trauma-informed, person-centred support to individuals with severe/episodic mental health challenges.
• Developed and monitored SMART Recovery Plans, Crisis & Safety Plans, and Relapse Prevention Plans.
• Performed intake interviews, comprehensive assessments, and ongoing progress evaluations.
• Acted as liaison across multiple agencies including Department of Justice, DFFH, NDIA, LGAs, PHNs.
• Advocated for client access to housing, NDIS, financial support, education, and social inclusion programs.

Key Achievements:

• Successfully engaged clients with histories of long-term service disengagement.
• Helped clients achieve improved independence, functional capacity, and long-term housing.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provided tailored AOD counselling, education, and case management to individuals with substance use issues.
• Facilitated client recovery goals through assertive outreach, comprehensive assessment, and service referrals.
• Developed risk management strategies including relapse prevention, harm reduction, and crisis planning.
• Ensured compliance with relevant legislation including Family Violence and Child Information Sharing Schemes.

Key Achievements:

• Assisted numerous clients in achieving sustained recovery and reconnection with their families and communities.
• Facilitated positive, person-centred discharge planning that promoted continued recovery post-treatment.