Ngaramura Transport Program
Operated by Rainbow Lodge, Ngaramura ('See the Way' in Gadigal language) is a therapeutic transport service that is available to any First Nations inmate on remand in New South Wales. The service transports First Nations people from remand to an appropriate residential drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre or (in some cases) to their family. Importantly, Ngaramura clients would otherwise not be able to access treatment as courts are often reluctant to grant bail if there is no reliable transport available.
During the journey, peer workers – First Nations people with lived experience of incarceration and treatment – engage the client in a process of storytelling. As part of this, the client learns more about Country and Culture as the peer worker describes the flora, fauna, landscape, and songlines. For many clients, this may be the first time they have had a focused opportunity to connect with their heritage.
Crucially, the service aims to reduce First Nations incarceration. Both participation in, and successful completion of, a residential drug and alcohol program are considered favourably by the courts during sentencing. In many cases, offenders who successfully complete a treatment program might receive a reduced custodial sentence or a non-custodial sentence.
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