An extra 200 minimum security and 160 maximum security beds will be established at the South Coast Correctional Centre.

The minimum security section will be built on site as an additional wing to the current complex, while the maximum security component will be a modular cell construction built off site and shipped to the South Nowra complex.

It is expected the South Nowra expansion will create an addition 90 jobs among the 2,380 extra jobs to be created as part of the program, boosting regional investment and improving community safety.

Corrections’ Minister David Elliott said more than 4,165 beds would be delivered over the next three years as part of the first tranche of projects worth $3.8 billion over four years to increase the capacity of the correctional system.

Modular cells will also be provided with 250 beds at Bathurst and 400 beds at Kempsey, and 480 beds at Junee and 240 at Emu Plains.

Corrective Services is consulting with the community on plans to expand Cessnock by 1000 beds and work is about to begin on a 400-bed ‘rapid build’ high security prison in Wellington.

Work is also underway to convert the former Juniperina Juvenile Detention Centre at Lidcombe to an adult women’s prison, and recommissioned prisons at Berrima and Unanderra will open next month and in January respectively.

“These beds support our reform program to lift standards, strengthen accountability and reduce reoffending,” Mr Elliott said.

Work is also continuing on the 1700-bed New Grafton Correctional Centre to open in 2020 and the 650-bed extension of Parklea to open in late 2018.

“This expansion program will create more than 2,380 new jobs, including highly-trained correctional officers and administrative staff, and have a positive impact on local businesses through increased trade,” Mr Elliott said.

Corrective Services Commissioner Peter Severin said Corrective Services had developed the innovative design for the rapid build prisons and that four would be built across the state.

“The rapid build prisons have been designed with the aim of improving inmate productivity and ensuring they are participating in programs to reduce reoffending, education or work for up to 12 hours a day,” he said.