ICPA President Update

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Since my appointment following the passing of our respected colleague Peter Severin, I have been deeply engaged with the ICPA Board and Executive team to ensure a smooth transition and continued momentum for our organization. I bring to this role nearly two decades of experience in correctional leadership, including my ongoing work as Chief Executive Officer of the Department for Correctional Services in South Australia.

 

During my tenure in South Australia, our team has achieved significant results through a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration. Our jurisdiction currently maintains Australia's lowest recidivism rate of 35.8% compared to the national average of 52.5%. These outcomes stem from our evidence-based approach, culturally responsive programs, and the fundamental belief that people can change given the right support and opportunities.

 

This success did not happen overnight. It required systematic change, staff commitment, and a clear vision that places rehabilitation at the core of correctional practice. We've developed comprehensive case management frameworks, invested in staff training, and built meaningful partnerships with community organizations. Most importantly, we've created environments where individuals can address the underlying factors that contributed to their offending while developing the skills needed for successful community reintegration.

 

These experiences have reinforced my belief in corrections as a profession that requires both compassion and rigor—values that align perfectly with ICPA's mission.

 

As we implement year two of our Strategic Plan, I am particularly focused on several key priorities that align with my professional experience:

 

 

Building on the Business Model Review completed in 2023, we will work to grow our membership base while ensuring our existing members receive meaningful, tailored support. The Business Plan establishes clear metrics for this growth, including a 5% increase in public sector members and mechanisms for interested agencies to access ICPA resources on a trial basis.

 

I am especially interested in our initiative to create new membership categories for non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, and non-profit entities. These sectors bring valuable perspectives that can enrich our collective understanding of effective corrections practices.

 

 

Drawing from my experience implementing successful rehabilitation programs, I am committed to strengthening ICPA's Practice Transfer Advisory Committee to facilitate more effective sharing of evidence-based practices across jurisdictions.

 

Knowledge transfer is not just about sharing what works—it's about understanding how to adapt successful initiatives to different contexts, cultures, and resource environments. My team in South Australia has learned valuable lessons about implementing programs in diverse settings, from metropolitan facilities to remote regional locations. I look forward to bringing these insights to our global practice transfer efforts.

 

 

The plan's focus on expanding both live and on-demand online offerings will ensure our global membership has equitable access to expertise regardless of geographic location or resource constraints. The specific targets include four webinars per year, at least one non-English webinar, and two Learning Academy sessions annually.

 

I have seen firsthand how digital technologies can connect professionals across vast distances, enabling learning and collaboration that would otherwise be impossible. As our field continues to face resource constraints, these accessible learning options become increasingly vital.

 

 

The planned Heads of Service meetings and virtual forums align with my belief in the power of professional networks to drive system-wide improvements. Our Business Plan sets concrete goals for these initiatives, including refreshed in-person Heads of Service meetings and at least two virtual forums in the 2025-2026 period.

 

Throughout my career, I've found that some of the most valuable insights come from candid conversations with colleagues facing similar challenges. These peer connections are particularly important during periods of system reform and when addressing complex issues like staff wellness, managing individuals with mental health needs, and implementing technological advancements.

 

 

I recognize the diverse challenges facing correctional systems worldwide—from staffing shortages to increasing complexity in the needs of those in our care. The measures outlined in our Business Plan directly address these challenges by creating platforms for collaboration, learning, and innovation.

In South Australia, we've navigated significant workforce challenges through strategic recruitment initiatives, comprehensive staff development programs, and a strong focus on organizational culture. We've also developed specialized approaches for working with individuals with complex needs, including mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and cognitive impairments.

 

These experiences have reinforced for me the importance of ICPA's role in connecting professionals and facilitating the exchange of practical solutions to common problems. Our Business Plan's emphasis on responsive member services and diverse learning opportunities will support our collective capacity to address these challenges effectively.

 

 

My contribution to ICPA will be grounded in practical leadership experience, a dedication to measurable outcomes, and a collaborative approach that values diverse perspectives. I am particularly interested in supporting our efforts to clarify ICPA's policy positions on important correctional issues and to expand our connections with non-governmental and academic sectors.

 

I am committed to transparent governance and inclusive decision-making. The Business Plan's emphasis on member feedback, including the 2026 member survey, aligns with my leadership philosophy. I believe that our strength lies in our diversity—of experiences, perspectives, and approaches to the complex work of corrections.

 

I also recognize the importance of fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth. As we expand our service offerings and reach, we must ensure that our Association remains financially viable for the long term. The Business Model Review provided an excellent foundation, and I will work with the Board to continue implementing its recommendations.

 

 

Over the coming months, I look forward to meeting many of you virtually and in person. I encourage your active participation in our upcoming webinars, Learning Academy sessions, and especially our Annual Conference. Your insights and experiences are vital to the success of our shared mission.

 

I welcome your feedback on how ICPA can better serve your needs and support your professional development. The specific initiatives outlined in our Business Plan—from website improvements to expanded Network activities—are designed to enhance your member experience, but we are always open to new ideas and approaches.

 

For those who haven't yet experienced the benefits of active engagement with ICPA, I encourage you to join one of our Networks, participate in upcoming online events, or submit a paper for our next conference. The connections you make and the knowledge you gain will enrich both your professional practice and our collective understanding of effective corrections.

 

 

Together, we can continue to build an ICPA that effectively supports correctional professionals worldwide and ultimately contributes to safer, more just societies. Our 2025-2026 Business Plan provides a clear roadmap, with specific activities, measurable outcomes, and defined timelines that will guide our work over the coming year.

 

I am honored to lead this organization during this important period and committed to advancing the strategic priorities established by the Board with input from our global membership. The values that have guided my work in South Australia—a belief in human potential for change, commitment to evidence-based practice, and respect for the dignity of all individuals—will inform my approach to leading ICPA.

I look forward to our collective journey ahead.

 

 

Sincerely,

David Brown

Acting President, ICPA