THE Swan Chamber of Commerce is continuing to partner with Thrive Integration and calling on businesses and employers to take part in reducing the rates of reoffending in the state in a call to recognise the prison system’s failings.

The latest round of callouts included an October 22 tour of the Hanssen facility in Hazelmere where ex-prisoners were vetted and put to work on site.

“Prisons were designed to protect communities, but true safety cannot be built on isolation and despair,” a chamber spokesperson said.

“Safety and stability come from connection, purpose, and opportunity.

“As of June 2025, 8545 people are in custody across the state, including 7632 men and 920 women.

“Incarceration is not just a government matter, it is a community responsibility.

“Real change requires the combined efforts of business, faith groups, community organisations, educators, and civic leaders.

“When we focus on restoration instead of rejection, both individuals and communities begin to heal.”

Thrive Integration’s process also has a culturally sensitive aspect to the program, involving Indigenous Elders to help ex-prisoners overcome a pattern of incarceration.

“Real healing comes from restoring identity through Country, culture, and community,” the spokesperson said.

“Keeping 100 individuals out of prison would save the state approximately $12 million annually.

“Reintegrating them into employment and training could return an estimated $8m to the economy.

“(This) is an opportunity for leaders to explore how we can all play a part in building safer, stronger, and more inclusive communities.”

Hanssen managing director Darren Linton said the company had seen firsthand the ability of former prisoners to become valued employees.

“We continue to do what we have done for a number of years now,” he said.

“The great bit about the tour and the Swan Chamber of Commerce is the opportunity to share the stories and benefits of such a great program.

“The long-term benefits greatly help the local businesses and community, by keeping people out of prisons and providing opportunity for them to give back.

“It also has a knock-on positive effect with their families and children.

“We find due to our robust vetting process, some of these ex-prisoners become great workers with some moving on to leading hand roles.”