News
30 July, 2026
'Shame, shame, shame': Mayor blasts Government over gaol decision
Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Nina Dillon says the NSW Government has already decided to close the Old Goulburn Gaol, despite previously promising the community six months of consultation before any changes were made.
Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Nina Dillon says the NSW Government has already decided to close the Old Goulburn Gaol, despite previously promising the community six months of consultation before any changes were made.
Cr Dillon met with Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong in Sydney on Tuesday and said she left "greatly disappointed" after being told the Government's decision was final and would not be reviewed.
"It is with great disappointment that I advise the NSW Government are pushing ahead with the decision to close our Old Goulburn Gaol," Cr Dillon said.
The latest developments come despite a growing community campaign to save the gaol. The Southern Wire has previously reported on concerns from staff, unions and community leaders about the impact the closure could have on local jobs, the economy and the future of Goulburn's long-serving correctional facility.
A parliamentary e-petition calling for the gaol to remain open has attracted more than 20,000 signatures, securing a debate in the NSW Parliament expected to be held in October.
However, Cr Dillon said events this week showed the decision had already been made.
She said 42 inmates had been transferred from Goulburn to Junee this week, with equipment from the prison's industries section due to be moved on Friday.
"Sadly, the two months remaining for consultation seem to be nothing more than lip service. The decision is made – so what can still be consulted?" she said.
Cr Dillon said Corrective Services staff continued to face uncertainty about their futures.
"Our Corrective Services staff still do not have real answers, are suffering from uncertainty about their families' futures and have the lowest morale ever seen at our gaol. It really beggars belief."
She also criticised the Government for proceeding with the closure before Parliament has the opportunity to debate the community petition.
"This Government could not even wait until the parliamentary debate had been held in October. Many local families had dedicated themselves to getting the 20,000 signatures required to support the debate calling for retaining the gaol."
"No – in their rush to close the Old Gaol – it seems that our community views don't count, and no one in control is willing to consider alternatives or evidence-based analysis of this irrational decision."
Cr Dillon concluded with a direct attack on the Government's handling of the issue.
"Shame on the NSW Government, shame on the Minister and shame on Corrective Services NSW."
The Southern Wire has contacted Minister for Corrections Anoulack Chanthivong for comment.
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