The three family members have provided support helping prisoners and detainees reconnect with their culture and learn job skills as part of their rehabilitation.
"Dad takes care of the men, I help the women and Zali works with the children," Debb said.
Zali Alexander is an Aboriginal Youth Support Officer and says she has found her calling.
“For years I watched pop and mum talk about how rewarding it was when they could be there for prisoners who needed support.”
“That rubbed off on me,” Zali said.
Zali works at Banksia Hill Detention Centre where she does everything from supporting the young detainees in court to organising electronic visits so they can speak to family who live remotely.
“Pop guided me by teaching me about our culture. Now I want to help young people who have lost their way,” Zali said.
John Alexander discovered his Aboriginal identity when he was 50. He had been removed from his mother as a young child.
His story drove John to partner with the Department of Justice in developing a comprehensive education and mentoring program for Aboriginal men in prison.
Drawing on four decades in mining logistics and heavy industry, he devised the Carey Bindjareb training program.
This highly successful 14-week course at Karnet Prison Farm allows participants to earn industry recognised certificates which enable them to work in mining and construction.
Nearly 300 prisoners have completed the training and three-quarters of those released are now employed in those industries.
John’s daughter Debb Alexander is passionate about enabling women in prison to find a future they may not have ever considered possible.
She works closely with trainees on the Yirra Djinda hospitality program at Boronia Pre-release Centre for Women.
“After a long career with the Health Department, I wanted a change. I wanted to give back to the community. I saw how Dad was able to make such a positive impact on prisoners, helping them turn their lives around through the training program at Karnet.”
Debb says it is a huge privilege to gain the women’s trust.
“Hopefully I can make a difference to them, their families and their communities. Even the thought that it helps just one person stay out of prison gives me great satisfaction.”
