The groundbreaking Yatala Labour Prison sets a new benchmark, transforming how we think about correctional facilities. With a philosophy rooted in trauma-informed design, GGA introduced a range of measures to normalise environments to reduce stress, demonstrating a deep understanding of how the physical environment affects identity, worth and healing.

Originally intended as 3 equal sized new buildings to accommodate the additional 270 high-security beds, GGA proposed one as a dedicated Therapeutic Wing. A revolutionary concept for the prison, the building is comprised of three smaller wings, tailored to vulnerable cohorts. While adhering to the stringent requirements for security and protection, biophilic design principles including natural light, natural materials, acoustic treatments, nature motifs and landscape views foster wellbeing, while choice of space indoors and outdoors promotes dignity and personal agency.

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The innovative split Visits Centre with dedicated family room, fosters family connections that are a vital component to avoid reoffending. Amidst the evolution in rehabilitative justice, the new works also included a site-wide analogue to digital security transformation and associated Central Control Room. A new Staff Wellbeing Centre, Admissions and Catering & Operations facility complete the major redevelopment to support a new era in justice.