ReStart Secures Funding to Manage Growing Complexity in Client Cohort
Over the past 12 months, ReStart has seen an increase in both the number and complexity of participants referred to the program. Many are presenting with multiple and intersecting needs linked to mental illness, cognitive impairment, substance use and trauma.
ReStart supports people leaving prison after serving short sentences, helping them to reintegrate into their communities, access housing and health supports, reconnect with family and build stability. The program aims to reduce the high number of people cycling in and out of custody due to short sentences and limited post-release support.
This growing complexity presents an ongoing challenge for the team. With each participant requiring more intensive and tailored support, ReStart is spending significantly more time with each person, placing pressure on existing resources and capacity.
The innovative ReStart team have used several strategies to manage the growing number and complexity of their participants:
- Internally referring highly complex participants to our Assertive Outreach and Support Service (AOS)
- Collaborating with other forensic case work programs like ReConnect to manage high caseloads
- Drawing on the support of Clinical Services to ensure wellbeing of the team through high stress periods, and to contribute mental health or disability expertise where needed.
“We continuously advocate for our participants, helping them navigate a system that too often feels stacked against them. We understand that for many, we may be their only reliable support, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our innovative spirit drives us to think outside the box, consistently seeking creative and effective ways to improve outcomes.”
– Rochelle Rosvall, FCW ReStart
While these strategies went some way to resolving the challenge, a more long-term solution would be needed to ensure ReStart could meet the needs of its evolving client cohort.
To strengthen the ReStart program’s capacity, ACSO worked closely with the Department of Justice and Community Safety (DJCS) Victoria throughout FY24/25 to advocate for additional funding. Through this partnership, we secured funding for two new caseworkers based in Sunshine and Gippsland, and an Advanced Program Worker role commencing in FY25/26.
This achievement reflects the strong collaboration across ACSO programs and our proactive approach to shaping services with government partners in response to the evolving justice landscape.