The state government of Western Australia (WA) has awarded an A$238.5m ($172m) contract to expand Acacia Prison, marking a significant development in the state’s custodial infrastructure planning.
Under the contract, construction firm Sitzler will build three new accommodation blocks, adding 480 beds to the existing facility in Wooroloo, about 50km east of Perth.
As part of the expansion, the project will also deliver a new support services building to provide education and allied health programmes, alongside a separate industries building for prisoner work, training and rehabilitation activities.
The works are expected to be completed by 2029. The expanded capacity is designed to help manage WA’s rising prisoner numbers.
The project is a key element of the Department of Justice’s Long-Term Custodial Infrastructure Plan 2025-35, which aims to address pressures on the correctional system and improve access to inmate support services.
WA Corrective Services Minister Dr Tony Buti said: “This investment will contribute to Western Australia's capacity to safely and effectively manage a growing prison population while continuing to prioritise community safety.
“The Acacia Prison expansion is about more than additional beds; it is about providing facilities, programs, and services that support rehabilitation and help reduce reoffending.
“New education, allied health, and industries facilities will provide prisoners with opportunities to develop skills, participate in meaningful activities, and prepare for life beyond custody.”
WA Transport and Major Infrastructure Minister Rita Saffioti said: “The Acacia Prison expansion is an important investment to keep our community safe.
“This expansion will deliver modern facilities that support rehabilitation, education, and employment opportunities for prisoners, and a safe workplace for prison officers.
“The expansion is also part of the Cook Labor Government's ongoing investment in the State's prison infrastructure, creating hundreds of local jobs during construction, supporting local businesses, and delivering the facilities we need now and into the future.”
Acacia Prison is a privately operated, medium-security facility for adult male inmates. The expansion site is adjacent to the existing prison.
The facility focuses on rehabilitation and inmate employment initiatives through its in-house industries and training programmes.
Last month, the WA Government awarded an A$700m ($490m) contract to upgrade Perth’s Kwinana Freeway to a consortium including CPB Contractors and Jacobs Group.
