30 Jul 2012

Video calls likely for inmates soon

3:52 pm on 30 July 2012

The Government says there is every chance prisoners will soon be able to keep in contact with people by video call.

The wide use of video-calling in Australia's justice sector was recently observed by Courts Minister Chester Borrows.

He says the contact helps inmates maintain family links and reduces the likelihood of re-offending, while also being cost-effective and safe.

Corrections Minister Anne Tolley says her officials are already investigating the introduction of video-calling.

But she says until a trial of the scheme takes place, the costs remain unclear.

Mrs Tolley also says she does not know if video-call visits would be made available for all inmates or just those with family and friends at a distance.