Beyond The Stone Walls Advisory Collective (BSWAC)

Beyond the Stones Walls Advisory Collective (BSWAC) was established in 2020 and is led by academic Associate Professor Marietta Martinovic (Criminology and Justice Studies, RMIT University). BSWAC is comprised of people with lived experience of the criminal justice system (CJS), university students, researchers, and CJS practitioners. We are consulted by a range of stakeholders in the justice sector about complex issues arising from criminal justice policies, and we advise on possible solutions by amplifying the voices of people with lived CJS experiences. Through reflection and story-telling, we inspire and influence systemic social change. BSWAC provides a unique platform for improving CJS practices through innovative and transformative ideas to address long-standing issues. We meet online every fortnight with a wide range of stakeholders, and provide advice on a variety of topics. We collaborate with stakeholders to brainstorm solutions that are beneficial to all interested parties. The work of BSWAC has received positive feedback from stakeholders, and many of the recommendations have already been implemented.