The matter on the adjournment I wish to raise is directed to the Minister for Corrections and Minister for Youth Justice. The action I seek is that the minister join me in my electorate of Tarneit to visit Fruit2Work’s warehouse in Laverton North and observe the good work they do in reducing recidivism in Melbourne’s outer west. For those in this chamber who may not be aware, Fruit2Work is a social enterprise that employs people touched by the justice system. But that is not all they do; they change lives. The people who come here work to prepare, pack and deliver fruit boxes throughout Melbourne. Not only this but they also receive the opportunity to learn valuable life skills and gain experience to get their lives back on track and reintegrate into the community.

Having seen many people whose lives have been affected by their experience with the justice system before entering this place, I strongly believe that initiatives like this, which help individuals reintegrate into the community, are some of the best strategies to combat recidivism and reduce crime. We know that when offenders find employment the chance of them re-offending and incurring further social costs is dramatically reduced. As it happens, Fruit2Work can proudly boast that they have a 0 per cent recidivism rate. Minister, I look forward to seeing you in Tarneit to visit Fruit2Work and see firsthand the positive impacts they are making on my local community.