Storm, from a prison in VIC
I have been in prison for over 13 years and I want to say that your newspaper is an amazing opportunity for all who have put the time in and it has been very well received throughout the Victorian Prison System.
•
Feedback From Our Readers
Every day we receive letters from people in prison. Many share the impact of About Time on their lives. Readers have told us that they feel as if they have a voice for the very first time. Some talk about how the paper has helped them connect to others and lessen isolation. Many talk about the educative benefit of the paper, while others praise the newfound hope and sense of self-worth they feel reading a publication just for them. Here are all of their words.
Shea, from a prison in VIC
I am thankful for any and all social and creative outlets such as yourselves involved in the creation and distribution of your newspaper. They provide a link or window to another place, an opening for personal expression and a greater sense of community for those who choose to make use of the opportunities. Writing a book review for a peer newsletter that might only be read by a hundred or so inmates at one prison may not change the world, but having someone stop you in the yard to tell you that they were impressed with your writing is valuable and reinvigorating.
Lanie, from a prison in VIC
I love this newspaper and enjoy reading it from front to back and back to front. I really enjoy looking at the artworks. You published one of my artworks, DEEP OCEAN, so thank you. I am very proud of that artwork. I taught myself to do art as I was severely bullied and abused, mentally, and physically, growing up and until this very day and I find it is good escape for my mental health. It helps me copy with all the bullshit and bullying that goes on in this place, that I've called home for the past 9 years. I have a minimum of 6 years left to go and then hopefully I can leave this place behind me. I'm not sure where I will restart my life once I'm out, but I guess I still have time to sort that out lol. Well that's all I wanted to say so thank you and keep up the wonderful work.
Bryn, from a prison in QLD
To About Time,
Thank you for your newspaper. I look forward to reading it each month. Its great! I enjoyed it from the first time I read it last year. Its made me feel connected, seen & heard. When I first went to jail I felt really alone and your newspaper helped me so much. Someone – well lots of someones – got how I felt. They understood. Thank you for that. I've written this poem while incarcerated. I really hope you will publish it for me.
Keep up the hard work – we need you guys.
Rachel, from a prison in QLD
Wow, I won the caption comp for December... I've never won anything and the whole jail is congratulating me. Our jail was never told about your newspaper – but in November 2024 it just showed up and all 120 girls love it. So please, please keep it up. ... Thank you for the write up on pen pal programs – I've been in jail for four and a half years and always watch a show called Love After Lockup based on the USA pen pal project ... Anyway guys, thank you for your newspaper. We eagerly await it every month here.
Mark, from a prison in VIC
Congratulations on the launch of About Time. I can only imagine how many obstacles you have navigated to successfully sail the product into Australia's prisons, and from where I sit it was very warmly received by the inmates, security and medical staff that I share time with. Well done, and thank you for delivering us something we didn't know we needed until we received it.
David, from a prison in NSW
This paper deserves all the support it can get. A way for prisoners to express their honest stories and gifts. A real way to heal and rehabilitate encouraging others to do the same.
Jesse, from a prison in NSW
I've been following your paper and I love it. I find it very cool and entertaining.
Asad, from a prison in QLD
I can't tell you how glad I was to see this paper come into my unit, a sign that times can and always will change the way we live, especially in prison.
Zayne, from a prison in VIC
I read your paper the night previous, and a part of me that previously was dead or dying suddenly felt alive and connected to others with similar struggles and trauma … So I just want to say thanks for your newsletter/prison paper.
Jason, from a prison in the NT
It was great to see prisoners being spoken of in a constructive and positive way, as I'm sure you're aware that isn't the norm in Australia. I look forward to hearing back from you and hopefully reading your newspaper.
Mark, formerly incarcerated in VIC
About Time has been a lifeline - when I was inside, it gave me a sense of purpose and feelings of camaraderie. The stories were really powerful. I have a chronic illness and suffer from intense pain, and writing for About Time has given me something to focus on and prevents me from going to dark places. Without About Time I don't know where I would be.
Tim, from a prison in VIC
I have read every one of your newspapers from the start and always look forward to the next one. Thanks for the good work.
Allyson, donor
I think you do a great job, that's appreciated by prisoners and outsiders/staff alike. Keep up the fabulous work!
Lance, from a prison in NSW
I just received a copy of issue 15 and once again I have a near overwhelming feeling of enthusiasm. Thank you.
Hamish, from a prison in VIC
I was very excited to see the writing competition article in the latest edition. Included is my submission. This story is a reflection of where I feel many people are in prison as well as a life constantly full of gambling where to be truly happy we just need to stop, breathe, be silent (sometimes). I took back on my own happy place (nature), even if its nowhere near good enough to be included in the newspaper, just having the chance to be creative is fantastic! So thank you.
Nathan, from a prison in VIC
I read the About Time newspaper every month, and I'm always looking forward to next month's one! This is my first time writing to you guys, and I want to thank you for reading my letter.
Adrian, from a prison in NSW
Thank you again for the paper and the feeling of belonging we get from reading the paper.
Andrew, from a prison in QLD
Dear 'Bout Time Crews!!! 'Nuff Respect, Kudos, and Vast Appreciation on your Magnificent, Pertinent and Poignant Periodical that just keeps getting better. WORD UP!!!
Susbcriber
Dear About Time, Thank you for the service you do in providing a voice for those inside and outside.
Vanessa, from a prison in WA
To About Time,
I only just discovered the prison newspaper last month in April 2026. I spent all day reading and sharing the newspaper here at Melaleuca Women’s Prison. I had only just begun writing again since getting incarcerated this year in January.
When I found out about About Time I was excited to be able to write in to the national prison newspaper. At the time I had no idea what to write. I wanted to enter the writing competition but the subject “Food For Thought”, is one of my least favourite food sayings!
So I was a little put off and tried a couple attempts to write something about it, not succeeding in my attempts. I do look forward to reading some of the submitted written work of others and possibly hope to enter into the next writing competition!
Ruben, from a prison in NSW
Kind regards, and thanks for your work.
Belly, from a prison in QLD
I am writing today to thank you for all the hard work involved in putting together and 'getting out' the National Prison Newspaper that I received for the first time here in Queensland.
Hoani, from a prison in WA
I have recently come by a copy of the newspaper, About Time. I read some interesting correspondence by others that are incarcerated. It is enlightening and insightful material to read and connect with on an emotional level as well as intellectually. Thank you for giving us a voice, an outlet, an opportunity for creative work and being able to share on a humanistic level our thoughts, feelings and aspirations. This is a piece I wrote. I hope it conveys my love for people, for life, and my hope for redemption.
Matthew, from a prison in NSW
First of all I would like to say what an awesome magazine – keep up the good work.
Michael, from a prison in QLD
Dear About Time,
Firstly, I love you newspaper.
Ethan, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for your time reading this. And thank you for giving me and the other blokes something good to read here.
Leslie, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for the great newspaper.
Storm, from a prison in TAS
Thumbs up from everyone for the newspaper, it's amazing!
Prison Officer, from a prison in VIC
I write to you, as a Victorian prison officer who reads every issue of About Time. It really helps me to see things through the prisoner's eyes. Although I am empathic, reading this publication enlightens me and increases my understanding of the issues prisoners face. Taking the time to read each issue and consider the content (with an open mind) makes me a better officer; and I sincerely hope that the perspective I gain comes across to all the guys in our care. Keep up the great work!
Alison, donor
I am a prison chaplain and I see how your paper is so important to the women I have the privilege to walk alongside. Thank you!
Kelly, from a prison in NSW
Kind regards, and many thanks for your continuous work every month to deliver yet another great monthly edition of "About Time".
George, from a prison in VIC
About time has given me hope: there are people on the outside who are trying to make some positive changes for us inmates. It's good to know there are people on the outside advocating for us inmates. Reading About Time, there are many inmates having to deal with issues similar to mine.
Dylan, from a prison in Australia
This paper is one of the only positives in here. I sincerely thank you and your entire team for every story and every edition.
It really helped me through the hard times in custody last time and the stories gave me some self-belief. Also your paper inspired me to do journalism as my combined degree with law.
Daniel, from a prison in VIC
Give it up for this fine newspaper!!
Johnathan, from a prison in VIC
Once again I offer congratulations for your January edition.
Andy, from a prison in NSW
Thanks for providing About Time and explaining things – it's helpful for understanding life behind bars and other things.
Lior, donor
I think About Time is incredible and a very important organisation! People need stimulation, connection and their voices.
Staff Member, prison in NSW
It arrived yesterday thank you so much! The residents really enjoy reading them.
Lindsay, from a prison in NSW
I recently discovered your publication while flicking through the resources on my tablet but have now gone through and read all the back issues available… it's fantastic and look forward to its release each month.
Brian, from a prison in QLD
Thank you all very much for the outstanding work and effort. The paper is a much needed blessing for all of us.
Les, from a prison in VIC
Thank you for a great magazine.
S, from a prison in VIC
I, and my mates, enjoy your paper and I've enclosed a copy of the last page of an actual letter I wrote my wife last week.
Morgan, donor
Amazing work!
Lexus, from a prison in QLD
Thank you for this newspaper, it makes me feel less lonely, more comforted and I have hope for my future.
Storm, from a prison in TAS
Your newspaper is fantastic and is extremely valuable, sharing experiences and knowledge between prisons in all states of Australia as well as the world - Helping all gain insight into practices and procedures as well as outlining certain indiscrepencies. It is wonderful to see such a vast array of people writing in to share their views, feelings and sharing their lived experiences within the system. Thank you to all those involved and keep up the great work!
Kyra, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for giving us a good read every month.
Jack, from a prison in VIC
To everyone who writes in please keep it up and encourage others to submit letters, art, poetry etc as myself and I'm sure many others really do enjoy receiving About Time and reading all the fantastic letters, articles etc... To everyone at About Time, my fellow brothers and sisters and anyone else who reads the paper – Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Remember to be kind to one another over the festive season.
Luke, from a prison in TAS
Thanks for your time and effort.
Frank, from a prison in VIC
Thank you for provide this platform for incarcerated people able to share their experience and stories. Actually I don’t really believe a lot people in community really care about what happen inside walls nor do they care about incarcerated people at all. So the rarity of this platform is invaluable.
By reading About Time makes me more aware that what I'm experiencing is actually a shared common experience. There is a large group people across Australia in same shoes, makes me feel that I'm not alone. To understand that my experience is actually a shared experience with thousands people across country make me feel a connection.
Abdullah, from a prison in NSW
Love that yous are doing what you can to provide something for us all to read and pass the time.
F.T.S., from a prison in NSW
P.S. Love your work.
Mel, from a prison in NSW
We may be criminals, but we also cry at night.
David, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for the paper copy of About Time. The November & December 2025 got through to me. I look forward to maybe receiving them now I'm back here. Your section on Christmas Greetings was well received by inmates. A wonderful addition to the December issue. Keep up your efforts. The paper is nourishing. I'm encouraging new men to share their stories. So much talent.
Belly, from a prison in QLD
I want to let ya know how stoked I was to see me as a runner up in last month's "Caption This" comp. So I thought I'd give it another crack.
Gary, from a prison in QLD
THANK YOU for About Time. Keep up the good work :)
Belly, from a prison in QLD
Dear 'About Time' editors,
The poetry by Leslie at Ravenhall and Robert here at Wolston really stood out for me.
Robert, from a prison in NSW
First of all I would like to say what an awesome magazine – keep up the good work.
Ben Abbatangelo
The paper enables folks to survive on the inside and then reimagine life beyond it.
Jon, from a prison in VIC
Hello, I write to congratulate you on your informative/entertaining magazine and I was sorry when the Justice Action magazine folded up years ago because I was a regular contributor and great fan of their publication. Now you are here to fill a much needed gap in prison life. Can you please place me on your mailing list and I look forward to receiving further editions.
Stella, donor
With care and solidarity.
Anonymous, from a prison in QLD
Thanks for your time, much appreciated.
Kyle, from a prison in VIC
To Denham Sadler,
I liked what you wrote in the December edition.
Michelle, from a prison in WA
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
Subscriber
Thanks for the publication, it is very impressive.
Anastasia, from SQCC
Hello to About Time, and all readers everywhere.
Sometimes when I'm alone I enjoy writing to try and take my mind from where I am. This is one of the poems. I hope you enjoy! Thanks a lot for providing me the opportunity to express myself and my thoughts to my fellow incarcerated people! Keep your head high guys and girls… Let them lock up our bodies but never our minds...
Biannca, from a prison in VIC
Hi Rosie,
Really great that you attend some of our writing days here at DPFC.
Mother of person incarcerated in the NT
I do love getting your publication. I cut it into A4 sections and send them to my son, who is in an NT prison. Only 5 cut-out pages at a time, of course!
Anonymous, from a prison in the ACT
I enjoy reading the publications in your paper, it is a great idea and a lot of the stories are extremely relatable and remind me that I am not alone. It is helpful to hear a lot of people across the nation are facing similar battles, including the revolving door with incarceration.... Thank you for reading, looking forward to your next issue, hopefully some of my work makes the cut!
Caitlin, from a prison in NSW
I loved the article on autism. I've been in jail since January 2024 and was diagnosed in March/April 2024. I relate to Ashleigh's experience as females tend to mask their autism to try to fit in with everyone.
Ahmed, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for publishing my article in Issue 14. Reading through it, I came across another article that got my attention: "The Dark Side of Gains" by Ronin Cruise. Anyway, great paper, keep it rolling.
Dean, from a prison in QLD
About Time reflects our feelings by publishing them. There’s a positive impact in knowing others are going through same stuff and hearing how they cope helps me find ways to cope. It makes us realise there are others going through the same, to share my story with a demographic that is walking in my shoes.
Great job, thank you for giving us a voice.
David, from a prison in NSW
Included is a poem written by Michael and my honest response of encouragement. May it offer hope to anyone who challenges themselves to choose to heal toward being a quality human. There are so many men wanting to transform. There are many who hear their pain. There are too few who truly listen. About Time gives all a voice to proclaim their sorrow and continue their amends. This challenges all to honestly listen with compassion and care. Thanks to you and your professionalism for making transformation possible.
Sam, from a prison in VIC
It's a bolstering feeling when we get the paper inside. For a moment it feels like we're being remembered as human beings – and not faceless offenders identified only by a series of numbers.
David, from a prison in NSW
"My "God" worked through by caring and healing others like many contributors are doing with About Time, and, with my willingness to "grow up" and cooperate with help offered, I am free – even in prison. This is the continuous "therapy" I receive from those considered on the "bottom". Never doubt your goodness.
Thank you all, my tears are the melting of my emotional iceberg! May it continue to melt!"
Belly, from a prison in QLD
Congratulations on your 12th issue. One year seems so fast when you look back on it. I look forward to each and every issue, thanks again.
TJ, from a prison in QLD
Thank you for the gift of your newspaper. A simple idea to spread a good word or thought via written media to the Australian prison population – and beyond – makes more of a difference to us, than anyone who hasn't done prison time could ever know.
Andrew, from a prison in TAS
Hey guys, I love getting the chance to read about other prisoners all around the country each month and thought I would share my story.
Jim, Office of the Inspector of Custodial Services
Thank you also for a very interesting and informative paper. Especially that it gives this office a prisoner perspective also. Keep up the good work.
Liam, donor
As someone who has been in custody multiple times over the past 3 decades, its been so exciting and heartening to see a newspaper for us and about our experiences.
Damian, from a prison in QLD
Dear About Time Editor,
Please feel free to edit this letter to better suit your newspaper and readers. I just want to do my part to make someone else’s life a little better.
Neale, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for all you do in putting together About Time and sending it into prisons. I certainly found it helpful and informative while I was inside. I look forward to reading the next edition of About Time when it comes out. I really like the way you have formatted your website. A bit easier to follow and read compared to what was on the NSW tablet version. Keep up the good work.
Rebecca, from a prison in QLD
Thank you to all who created 'About Time' and for making it work. I am a deaf prisoner who is quite isolated within isolation. I miss out on small talks such as what other prisoners are really feeling to bigger things such as how to make a complaint against case notes. Deaf Services has been trying to fight to bring tablets in for deaf prisoners in Queensland and it's good to see that the government is slowly introducing tablets into some prisons and that tablets may be possible for deaf prisoners in the future. The newspaper is like a light at the end of a tunnel. Thank you.
Marion, donor
Love your work!
Martin, from a prison in QLD
Reading about other experiences gives consistency to my own experiences, literally felt like they described my very own time/experiences.
Paul, from a prison in QLD
About Time volunteers, give yourself a pat on the back for this paper, well done! You have no idea the effect it has on the readers. Such a positive initiative towards all people incarcerated.
Thank you.
Danielle, from a prison in QLD
Here is some feedback for About Time – it's absolutely positive! From my first introduction to issue 2 or 3 I looked forward to the next edition. Arriving here I followed up with an officer who ensured copies were available to us.
Staff Member, from a prison in NSW
The June addition has arrived and has been distributed. The ladies were all reading it and some are now contacting Women’s Advocacy Service from the article, just some recognition of what your paper does to get the word out about amazing new services. Thank you.
Donna, donor
I wish I could donate more. I love reading your paper. I'm a mother of a incarcerated son in Western Australia.
Kevin, from a prison in VIC
I would be pleased to maintain contact and further contribute. About Time is a valued publication in prison and a worthy pursuit.
Bradley, from a prison in TAS
Our hope and our voice lies at the hand of those who can make a difference and this is why I'm writing and trying to make a difference/change.
Hoani, from a prison in WA
After multiple sentences and long stints in prison, I am in the process of understanding myself and the impacts of my behaviours. I am writing to About Time to share with others what I have learnt. I hope this is helpful to others in similar situations to me.
Kelli, from a prison in QLD
Love your newspaper, it provides a lot of people a bit of light :)
Lee, from a prison in NSW
Firstly, let me say, only recently discovered your publication while flicking through the resources on my tablet but have now gone through and read all the back issues available.. it's fantastic and look forward to its release each month. Again, love your work, keep it up and keep on smiling.
Belly, from a prison in QLD
Thanks again for the great content in the March 2025 issue.
David, from a prison in NSW
The paper continues to be enjoyed and promoted by me and others.
Carolyn, donor
So glad you provide this for inmates and for those that lost loved ones inside.
