Biometric Identification to access NSW prisons

17/01/2014

Members have been notified that they are now required to use biometric identification to access NSW prisons. The Department of Corrective Services has arranged two additional registration days on 23 and 28 January 2014, which will be held at the Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre.

These registration days are for our members’ convenience. Members can also register for biometric identification 15-20 minutes prior to a scheduled prison visit, provided that the prison is operating a biometric identification system. A Bar Association member identification card or Legal Aid identification card will be sufficient proof of identity for the registration process.

The Department of Corrective Services has instructed prison staff to give legal practitioners priority for biometric processing.

For those prisons that are not currently operating a biometric identification system, a Bar Association member identification card or Legal Aid identification card will be sufficient proof of identity.

The Bar Association is still negotiating with the Department of Corrective Services in relation to other aspects of the biometric identification scheme, and the outcome of these negotiations will be advised to members in due course.

Enquiries in relation to biometric identification should be directed to Megan Black on 9229 1739 or at mblack@nswbar.asn.au

17 January 2014