Lived Experience Panel

People who have lived experience of the justice system often have ideas about how things need to change. Vacro invites people with lived experience to help us make decisions about our programs, research, and advocacy. The Lived Experience Panel will help us to find the right people.

Our definition of lived experience: people who are or who have been in sentenced custody, remanded custody, or on a community corrections order, and members of their family.

The Lived Experience Panel seeks people who:

Are passionate about sharing their experiences with purpose.
Want to contribute their voice to the work we do to see change in the criminal justice system.
Want to collaborate with others with lived experience or those working in the sector.
Are interested in learning new skills.

The Panel is currently full, and we are not accepting applications. However, if you are interested in participating, watch this space for future intakes.

In the meantime, check out these FAQs to learn more about our Lived Experience Panel.

Newsletters:

Latest

Coordinator, ReLink Reintegration Program (Ararat, Ballarat & Central Highlands)

•This prison-based role is delivered onsite across two locations: Hopkins Correctional Centre, Ararat, and Langi Kal Kal Prison, Langi Kal Kal. •Salary range: $100,776.00 to $105,340.56 + superannuation, in line with Level 5 of the SCHADS Award 2010 (pay point dependent on qualifications and experience). •Generous salary packaging to increase your take-home pay. •0.9 FTE ongoing role. •Occasional travel to Melbourne is required.
Family Therapy Program

Supporting parents on both sides of the prison gate, along with their families.
Second Chance Cycles

Second Chance Cycles Regular Opening Hours: Tuesdays & Thursdays between 10am-4pm (Closed between 1pm-2pm for lunch) 64 Harmsworth Street, Collingwood VIC 3066
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Coordinator, ReLink Reintegration Program (Ararat, Ballarat & Central Highlands)

•This prison-based role is delivered onsite across two locations: Hopkins Correctional Centre, Ararat, and Langi Kal Kal Prison, Langi Kal Kal. •Salary range: $100,776.00 to $105,340.56 + superannuation, in line with Level 5 of the SCHADS Award 2010 (pay point dependent on qualifications and experience). •Generous salary packaging to increase your take-home pay. •0.9 FTE ongoing role. •Occasional travel to Melbourne is required.
2021 Policy Submissions

Here is a selection of the submissions we made in 2021.
2022 Policy Submissions

Here is a selection of the submissions we made in 2022.
2023 Policy Submissions

Here is a selection of the submissions we made in 2023.
Policy Submissions 2023

A selection of our 2023 submissions.
Research

Our work is based on evidence, informed by best practice, and responds to the needs of the people we serve.
Policy

Vacro advocates for policy, law, and system changes to support our participants to create new beginnings in stronger communities. We have a vision of a fairer justice system for all, which guides our 2025-29 Advocacy Strategy.
Training

Vacro is Victoria's sole specialist organisation working exclusively with people who transition from prison to community.

Lived Experience Panel

Edition 1: February 2023

Edition 3: November 2023

Edition 4: April 2024