Hirusha joined ACSO in February 2024 as a Forensic Case Worker with the ReConnect Program in the South-East team. Working with ReConnect was not part of her career plan. She originally applied for a Youth Justice Worker role at Parkville Youth Justice Precinct. Though she didn’t land the job, the interview completely changed how she saw the justice system, and she became more determined than ever to make a change. That compassion and resilience led Hirusha to ACSO, ad she hasn’t looked back. 

“I’ve always been drawn to the paths that raise an eyebrow or two. The cohort we work with in ReConnect is often stereotyped, disadvantaged, and dismissed before anyone’s really heard their story, and I’ve come to see working alongside them not as a hard road, but as a genuine privilege. 

“From day one I’ve been surrounded by an incredibly knowledgeable and supportive team, all working towards the same goal, helping people transition from prison back into the community. No two days look the same, which keeps things equal parts challenging and rewarding.” 

What’s it like working in ReConnect? 

“Unpredictable, in the best way! ReConnect is full of people who genuinely believe everyone deserves an opportunity to rebuild their life and that belief is contagious. The work isn’t always easy, but it’s meaningful. You celebrate the small wins, lean on each other through the tough days, and learn something new constantly. It’s the kind of role that reminds you exactly why you got into community services in the first place.” 

What does a normal day in your work week look like? 

“Lots of driving across Victoria for prison visits, which I secretly love, because it’s the perfect excuse for a good playlist, a podcast, and a medium skinny matcha (no sugar!). 

“Inside, we meet with people before release to help them plan their next chapter. Once they’re out, we stay in their corner for up to nine months, helping them sort housing, employment, reconnecting with family, and linking them into services. Really, it’s about walking alongside someone while they rebuild, and helping them get to a future they’re proud of.” 

Do you have a favourite part of your role? 

“Hands down, hearing the stories that usually go unheard. Everyone’s story is far more complicated than what’s written in a file and being trusted with it is a privilege. Even better is getting to walk beside someone as they start a new chapter, watching them believe in themselves again, one small step at a time. That’s a feeling I’ll never take for granted” 

Looking back at your time with ACSO so far, do you have a moment you are most proud of? 

“It’s less one big moment and more a collection of small ones. Someone securing stable housing, reconnecting with family, landing a job, or just making a better choice than they might have before. Those milestones are why this work matters. Helping someone believe in a different, better future despite their past and being trusted to walk with them through some of their hardest moments is something I’m endlessly proud of!” 

Is there a particular direction you hope to grow your career in? 

“I’d love to keep growing within forensic services, every client and every challenge teaches me something new, and I want to keep building on that.  

“Longer term, I’d love this work to lead me towards becoming a social advocate. I hope to use my experiences to be a voice for people whose stories often go unheard, raise awareness and contribute to creating meaningful, lasting change within our communities.” 

Outside work, what do you like to do with your time? 

“I like to balance my serious side with the creative. You’ll find me at TFP photoshoots, hosting community events, or chasing some other creative outlets, plus I’m a certified book hoarder (aspiring reader, at least!). But most of all, I love spending quality time with my family, new adventures, little outings, or just making memories together.” 

We’re lucky to have Hirusha and others like her on our ReConnect South-East team. It really is the people that make ACSO such a special place to work. Hirusha sums it up well herself: “If you want meaningful work, supportive colleagues, and a genuine chance to make a difference, ACSO is a fantastic organisation to be part of.