Belfast based custodial IT company Core Systems NI Ltd, has secured a significant deal to provide Australia’s largest prison with digital services to support inmate rehabilitation.

Core Systems is a global expert in offender self-service solutions for use in prisons and in the community.

Making the announcement, Patricia O’Hagan MBE, CEO of Core Systems said: “Our new inmate self-service software, ‘Pathway’ has been implemented in Clarence Correctional Centre, Australia’s largest prison. It provides inmates with an opportunity to develop valuable digital skills and prepare for release back into the community. It contributes to improved rehabilitation and reintegration by enabling inmates to take responsibility for day-to-day activities and also provides access to secure communication with family and support networks.

“We are proud to be part of the team delivering this new state-of-the-art correctional facility. The centre is impressive, and incorporates considerable innovation with a focus on rehabilitation. This aligns with our vision to provide inmates with digital tools, services and skills to help them rehabilitate and achieve better outcomes in their lives.

“Invest NI has supported us throughout our journey, with R&D support to develop our software solutions and trade support to explore export markets. In the case of this export success, Invest NI supported us to visit Australia where the local team provided us with market knowledge, contacts and introductions which were invaluable in helping us win this deal.”

The company has partnered with NEC Corp in Australia to deliver the project.

Congratulating the company, Steve Harper, Invest NI’s Executive Director of International Business said: “This is a great example of a strategic approach to exporting from identifying a suitable target market, committing resources to visit and understand the market, and investing in market research to find the right partner.

“Core Systems is renowned for innovative thinking and optimal delivery of its services. Over the last ten years, we have provided the company with a mix of support, which has helped it to develop new products, bring those products to market and increase exports.  The combination of our Trade Advisory service, travel assistance, and the in-market knowledge of our team in Australia has been a winning combination which has ultimately helped the company secure this contract win.”