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.
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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.
Jesse, from a prison in NSW
I've been following your paper and I love it. I find it very cool and entertaining.
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.
Martin, from a prison in VIC
This is my first time and I must say, stumbling across About Time has made things so much better. The open, honest, raw and relatable articles are real gems and resonate hugely.
Anyway, I felt compelled to contribute so here follows a few submissions for your consideration.
About Time
There is a great paper 'About Time',
Which is free and won't cost you a dime,
With articles galore,
It is never a bore,
And provides a refreshing angle on crime!
Jai, from a prison in QLD
Finally a voice for the unseen and unheard. First huge step in connecting prisoners.
There are way too many problems in jail, so to hope for better solutions is always an interesting find. Also staying connected to other's thoughts and feelings – it sort of feels like a union paper.
I certainly agree it helps give a more earnest effort of confidence in writing, but I do believe it is more to do with the burning feelings in one's heart that makes them feel compelled to write. Improved writing skills is just a bonus.
I personally look forward to the paper, as do so many others in prison. The impact was very moving – to hear other stories, to see legal opportunities available as well as fun stuff to do to keep us occupied (especially with so many lockdowns). It is in the word 'Impact' – To Act!
Milo, from a prison in QLD
Its my first time reading this paper and I love every thing that it offers, thank you for sharing information that all prisoners need to know.
It makes you feel like your feelings and thoughts are valid and others can relate to how you feel and together we can over come this negative time in our lives and turn this experience into a positive and heal and live your best life.
Because it comes from us that live it, us the real people that experience jail life every day every minute, people on the outside should really learn what actually goes on and the mistreatment we as prisoners go through we are all not bad people.
This is just the first of many times I will submit my words, my feelings and my thoughts I will continue to offer my help and guidance even when I am released.
Its good to share and connect without judgement give you self confidence.
Anthony, from a prison in VIC
I'd like to give a shout-out to Vanessa from prison in WA and welcome to About Time. I discovered About Time early last year 2025 and always look forward each month for the read. Last year in two seperate issues I had stories published and seeing them in the national prison newspaper was the best feeling.
I've always had a love for writing but never had the time, now incarcerated I have nothing but time so I decided to put pen to paper and with two stories published I am now working on writing a book.
Sometimes when we write something worth publishing it is when we least expect it. For me writing is a powerful tool that helps with my mental health.
Keep up the good work and never give up writing, I look forward to future stories.
Rainie, from a prison in WA
I first and foremost would like to express my gratitude and appreciation for all the hard work that goes into producing and providing myself and the other prisoners in Australia with your truly captivating content.
Your work and effort does not go unnoticed.
Thank you to the team at About Time for your efforts and hard work making the newspaper what it is.
Charlotte, from a prison in the ACT
I relate to a lot of people in this paper. I feel comfort in knowing I'm not alone in custody. I feel more connected, and well heard.
I feel submitting/participating in surveys makes me feel as my input is valued towards making a better paper! It's helped boredom and helped me better understand jail, as it's my first time (been here 4 months).
Keep producing a great paper! Thousands of us appreciate it! Love from Charlotte.
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.
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.
Ashley, from a prison in QLD
To read about people experiencing almost the same things that bother me makes me feel less isolated and that I am not crazy, some peace of mind and relativity, empathy and understanding.
To read about others going through the same experience is reassuring and comforting, it helps kill time, learn, laugh and relate.
Keep up the good work. We need you :)
Subscriber
He was pretty happy when he called, and had already cut the exercises out to stick on the wall in his cell!
Thanks again Edith. I hope all in the AT team really understand how much difference the paper makes.
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.
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.
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.
Shay, from a prison in QLD
About Time gives a sense of community and belonging. It’s valuable to have my opinion heard and respected, to stay feeling valued and worthy.
To have a voice, to be heard with no fear of judgment. It gives a clearer perspective and to know that others experience the same things as we do in these places. Hear and see other peoples stories and know there is no judgement.
Because the truths are being printed rather than hidden.
Martin, from a prison in VIC
About Time gives prisoners a voice and a platform. In life being heard is so important, and makes you feel you have something to offer. Contributing made me feel valued.
So many relatable stories, letters etc, when you thought you were alone in your experience or thoughts. The relatable content really makes you feel that you are not alone. Everyone's experience is unique but there is plenty of articles/letters that reflect my own experience.
In my 4th week of prison (1st time) it has given me more insight and validated so much of my feeling/experience. It is already making a hard situation somewhat better and has given me a more positive feeling (even though some articles expose so much of what is wrong with the system!).
I just want to thank you and the team, and the contributors, for providing a publication that is so raw, honest and relatable.
Keep up the great work, you are making a difference and helping countless people get through this experience!
Joeby, from a prison in QLD
About Time has positively impacted my belief in myself. It has real life stories from real life prisoners.
Tanya, from a prison in VIC
About Time is an avenue that we can express our frustrations, our gratitude and facts. It is a honest and reliable source that we can depend on, it is stories and facts from prisoners that hasn’t been distorted. None of the stories have been doctored. I really enjoy reading this honest media outlet. Thank you!
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.
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.
David, from a prison in VIC
I write to About Time so others can see their stories matter and others will maybe write in too or tell there families to. Cause it helps to deal with being stuck and also lets me get it out.
It makes me feel pain is only a thought not a feeling and everyone goes through it some don’t show it. Cause I see others feel it or live it too, I feel their pain as I too have lived it or gone through it.
It is a space of free speech and also gives good advice and also hope and strength.
M, from a prison in TAS
About Time helps me relate to my problems knowing others are also dealing with similar problems I can see a light at the end of the tunnel. I feel that I have a connection to others with similar struggles and that I am not alone. I don’t feel as isolated over the past six years doing hard time.
It has given me the confidence in trying to write better and for help in bettering myself pre-release.
Due to reading this I know there is help and that there’s always some one worse off needing help.
Glen, from a prison in WA
Thank you for your work providing the About Time platform which allows creativity and expression a space to flourish.
Last night I woke up with something I had to write down which is just how it happens, and I wrote this poem that I would like to share with everybody. I hope you like it too.
It would be nice if you could publish it as it is my hope that it will help people form more positive relationships in their lives and help contribute to a more pro-social society.
Thank you, I enjoy reading your newspaper.
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.
Ken, from a prison in TAS
This this paper is dedicated to prisoners which helps our mind health in so many ways.
The stories are from prisoners who want to share their views with others and that helps us do our time. It meant I could share my story with others who are feeling the same way. I feel this paper allows us to connect with each other.
About Time is a great way to learn what is happening in other jails. It was a chance to use my writing skills and use the tools to tell a story. Love this paper.
Please keep up the great work and thanks for giving us a voice.
Subscriber
Thank you for what you do.
I have no contact with my brother who is in prison and the newspaper gives me great comfort knowing I have some small insight into his life, a way I can connect with his world.
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.
I do look forward to reading some of the submitted written work of others and possibly hope to enter into the next writing competition!
From Vanessa.
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.
Paris, from a prison in VIC
About Time helped both me and my partner on the outside share some situationaI awareness. Cannot wait for the paper each month. The articles by other prisoners resonate with my own inner voice, they give my own feelings more universality. Submitting my writing feels as if I can make a difference.
Thank you About Time! Amazing work.
David, from a prison in QLD
About Time is filled with good and thoughtful people issues, because we all have contributed to it. Misery loves company, so to speak. I’m now 9 jail sentences in so am very much used to this but this is for us crims and has made us feel connected and that someone gives a f**k. By making us write letters, it helped stimulate the brain.
The paper gives me a positive attitude is because I felt good when I read this. Thank you and I love your work.
Jordan, from a prison in VIC
Hello About Time and Readers,
I love getting the opportunity to learn about other prisoners and their stories from all over the country. We all have something to share and I encourage everyone to give it a go. Finding purpose is how we thrive beyond survival against all odds, especially in these circumstances that I'm sure we can all relate to.
Shout out to my girls at DPFC and anyone else incarcerated, struggling with their own consciousness.
A gracious thank you to About Time for giving us a necessary platform to express ourselves.
Stevie, from a prison in VIC
Dear Rosie,
I just want to say how happy I am to receive a reply from you. I never expected an acknowledgement of receipt, let along a letter. This means a world to me. It shows that someone was kind enough to take their time to read through and understand what it meant and appreciate the event and the effects it bears upon the writer. I can not thank you enough for that.
Anonymous, from a prison in VIC
Dear About Time,
I was very excited to see the writing competition article in the latest edition. Included is my submission. It's based on my own happy place (nature) and even if it's nowhere near good enough to be included in the newspaper, just having the chance to write creatively is fantastic. So thank you.
Muhamed, from a prison in VIC
Dear About Time,
Thank you once again for your amazing publication. I know I speak for myself and many of the other men here when I say that you publication is valued and appreciatedand we look forward to its arrival each month. It certainly becomes a central discussion point in the yard in the days following its distribution here. Both myself and the other men within my accommodation lodge read over every edition repeatedly.
I've written to you once previously with a poem that didn't make the cut. I hope my submission this time around is more in line with the material you're looking to publish. Once again, thank you for your incredible work in continuing to support, connect, and inform incarcerated men and women across the country.
David, from a prison in NSW
Since the very first edition was released in July 2024, About Time has been faithfully producing monthly editions. I know firsthand how widely it circulates: across prisons throughout the country, whether in printed form or through the iPads available to inmates. The response among prisoners, including myself, has been overwhelmingly positive. What makes About Time unique is that its content speaks directly to the lived experience of those of us on the inside. It offers practical information, but it is also deeply creative and artistic. The poems, stories, and artwork published give prisoners something that prison usually strips away-our voice. Here, identity is often reduced to our MIN number, our sense of personhood is eroded day by day. Yet when an inmate's words or artwork appear in About Time, that person is recognised again as fully human, capable of thought, creativity, and contribution. Equally important is the rehabilitative effect. Too often, boredom and frustration inside prison breed conflict, misconduct, and despair. About Time offers a powerful alternative: it channels energy into productive and meaningful work. Instead of wasting away or finding trouble, inmates can discover new skills, pursue creativity, and experience the pride of positive achievement. This not only improves mental health and prison culture in the short term, but also strengthens the likelihood of successful reintegration and reduces the risk of reoffending once inmates are released. Because of About Time, inmates are enabled to see the possibility of real change. There is no other service in Australia that reaches us in this way.
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.
Andrew, from a prison in NSW
I'm a big fan of your magazine/newspaper and I look forward to it each month. I enjoy reading things written by other inmates like myself across the country.
Kelly, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for your continued hard work to put together such an amazing magazine for all inmates, and may Peace, love and happiness touch everyone.
Jonathan, from a prison in VIC
I offer congratulations once again for your July edition and there were several articles which many blokes took notice. I hope they use the info they chose and put it to good use.
Thanks again for your continued publication. Keep up the good work.
Brody, from a prison in QLD
Dear About Time thanks for your tireless efforts in making a little brightness in an otherwise dull place. I especially would like to thank you for your reply paid letters between calls and munchies.
Carolyn, from a prison in VIC
Thank you Denham for writing back to me about the lockdowns happening here at DPFC. And I especially say thanks for your guidance in writing the article. Thank you again for all your help with this.
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.
Luxe, from a prison in QLD
I'm living the stories your paper is printing, I strongly believe this paper will change lives. Our voices go unheard in here (prison). So thank u. For the 1st time in prison I feel we can make a change, It's given me PURPOSE N HOPE :) Your paper has already changed my life. I'm so grateful to u, there's not enough paper in here to put it all down on.
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.
Naomi, from a prison in WA
Firstly, thank you for the newspaper, I look forward to every new issue! It's an amazing opportunity to read everyones thoughts, feelings and experiences, as well as educate ourselves around the system and available resources and it provides me with a strong sense of connection.
Thomas, Lived Experience Worker
Person cut out published letter and put it above bed.
Skye, from a prison in QLD
I think the guys in prison appreciate this paper. It reminds me I’m not the only one in this situation, I get like to see what others are writing & feeling while in jail.
Thank you all you guys do :)
Matty, from a prison in QLD
Dear About Time,
My name is Matty & I am currently in a QLD jail, hoping you could put my poem in your paper. I know alot of inmates will like it.
Thank you.
Krista, donor
We heard about you on ABC and were struck but what a great project this is. A very deserving population for this work to impact.
Subscriber
Love your work. I work in AOD and love bringing in your newspaper. The people who use the service look forward to its arrival and we always end up having great chats whilst reading through the paper together.
Michelle, donor
Fantastic work.
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.
Kane, from a prison in NSW
To About Time,
First of all I would like to do a shout out to my fellow brothers and sisters doing time and may be struggling. Just remember that this place can’t dim your energy, it’s only temporary.
Kelly, from a prison in NSW
I'm always reading your paper.
Storm, from a prison in TAS
Writing and creating artwork has really helped me express my emotion and document my experiences in here over the time I have served. "About Time" is my favourite piece and it was created after reading your first issue some months back. I hope you enjoy reading them, as I enjoy writing them. Feel free to use any of them you'd like to, to publish in your newspaper with my name and location if/when you have the space to do so. Regardless, thank you kindly for your time and for making 'Australia's National Prison Newspaper'. I look forward to every issue.
Stellios, from a prison in NSW
I get great enjoyment out of each issue. It helps pass the time.
P.S. I love the poems and the pictures people draw. There are so many talented people out there.
Shaun, from a prison in NSW
Thank you for your work publishing this paper. I enjoy reading and it has been a source of positivity and help for me since entering custody.
Steven, from a prison in WA
Great to get your paper, this only about our 3rd copy.
So, keep them coming. It's great to read other people’s stories.
Answering your survey, I found it was great to stimulate my brain.
I am 68 years old and I get very little stimulus in here. I have a lot of pain and can’t walk.
Michelle, from a prison in WA
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.
Alex, from a prison in VIC
Keep up the awesome prints! We all love and appreciate them down here.
Subscriber
I've just listened to Joseph's podcast on ABC RN. What a relatable, informative and honest conversation!
Those articles, by other prisoners he doesn't know, somehow lessen the physical and mental isolation often experienced.
Kelli, from a prison in QLD
Love your newspaper, it provides a lot of people a bit of light :)
Dayle, donor
Thank you, keep up the good work. From a supporter x
Noah, from a prison in QLD
A big shout to all prisoners and the team of "Australia's National Prison Newspaper. Thank you for all the support.
Clayton, from a prison in SA
Articles my cellie and I appreciated in Issue #5 (November 2024): H.E.A.L., Computer Access in Cells, Reintegration/Studying After Prison, How to Write Lifestyle Stories, How to Deal with Shame, Neck, shoulder and back relaxation, Book Club - although difficult to access multiple copies of book here, Creative, Mob/Future Dreaming, Play.
Tony, from a prison in TAS
I enjoy the paper, it’s empowering. Nice to see how others are feeling and us inmates are in the same boat. It's just a great read. We need it.
Luke, from prison in TAS
Thanks for your time and effort it’s appreciated.
Take care!
Subscriber
I have a son who's on remand and as your paper isn't issued in the NT a hard copy would be great, as I can quote items to him in letters.
Many thanks! Keep up the great work!
Laura, donor
Keep up the amazing work Rosie and crew.
Trieste, from a prison in QLD
I am writing in regards to the writing competition. I would like to acknowledge and give thanks to country, elders past, present and future. I am very grateful for this opportunity and am excited to add this experience to my resume.
Jeff, from a prison in QLD
Thanks again for your publication.
Mark, donor
Keep up the great work Jo and Rosie!
Tyler, donor
This is so awesome. Such important work. I must look into how you got approval for this as the state is so punitive and resistant to prisoners needs. Anyway, awesome work!
David, from a prison in NSW
Keep up the professional and caring support given to the incarcerated. It is quality "therapy", so needed.
Karie, from a prison in QLD
Keep up the good work. The girls enjoy reading your paper.
Just thought I'd send in some words of I guess comfort to those having a hard time.
F.T.S., from a prison in NSW
P.S. Love your work.
Wayne, donor
Good morning, I just heard the interview on ABC radio national. Congratulations in what you are doing.
Jon, from a prison in NSW
Thanks for your excellent newspaper. It always contains useful information and heartfelt stories. Keep up the good work.
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.
Clay, from a prison in VIC
ABOUT TIME PUBLISHERS:
Thank you for your work, About Time newspaper helps so much for myself and so much more people around Aus doing time, it's almost like The Incarceration Bible it spreads good words, stories and peoples’ journeys.
Donna, donor
I wish I could donate more. I love reading your paper. I'm a mother of a incarcerated son in Western Australia.
Amy, donor
Thanks for this really important work.
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.
Rocket, formerly incarcerated contributor
I am so proud that I get to welcome our NT people in prison to your very first issue of About Time! This is your newspaper, so please write in and send pictures, stories, poems and whatever else fits.
I look forward to hearing from people in the NT writing into About Time and making the newspaper your own.
Joe, from a prison in VIC
Principally I write to extend feedback - re: your monthly paper. I must say that it was with more than the usual measuring spoon of interest that most here welcomed its arrival. Upon finding it in our respective mailboxes, it caused a stir. A tad like the discovery of gold in Ballarat: a freakin buzz!
Some leafed the pages; quietly absorbed by its content. Whilst some flocked together like a monochrome-green flamboyance of flamingos chortling approbation for the contents therein. A small, tidy group o Indigenous fellas loudly (and proudly!) celebrated the inclusion of the artwork of a dear friend of mine Chris at the top right corner of page 11. In short, conversation thrived! The overall reaction across the board: favourable!
Could it be I'm 'reading' too much into it, if you'll pardon the intended pun? Nay, say I. For the reason is simple. For most of us, About-Time rekindles the hearth flames of hope…. And solidarity.
Concurrently - albeit more tactfully - it served as a semi-tabloid sized platform some many choose to use as a way of expressing the beauty they've shielded within since time immemorial. This beauty, be it an artistic or linguistics, or even just humanistic, will finally sprout from the nutrient-poor soil of imprisonment like a tentative sapling (craving the warmth of yellow sunshine on its budding, little leaves).
A 'green' clothed sapling that can now reach toward the azure skies of better expression; ethical tolerance; and more meaningful connection with life and love.
As one of the two peer educators, I interact with dozens of inmates daily. Without reservations, I can say your paper has had a positive influence on all and sundry. And that's tickety-boo!! Quite soon, I imagine you'll be navigating a metaphorical diluvial flood of correspondence into all areas of expression you graciously invite feedback and/or input.
If you would be so kind as to grant me a little leeway in sending you an occasional short story, or a poem, or even an observational anecdote: then I'd be totes chuffed!
Jon, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for your excellent newspaper. It always contains useful information and heartfelt stories. Keep up the good work.
Garth, from a prison in QLD
I really liked the Bits & Pieces section – more of that would be great.
Could you please include more two-person games or activities we can do in our cells when locked in?
Is there any possibility of starting a pen pal system, where people can write in and be connected with others?
I'd love to see articles on how to write better – anything to help us improve.
Thanks for the paper – it's something a lot of us look forward to.
Anthony, from a prison in NSW
This is my first time writing to About Time. I love reading articles that been published. I find them fascinating to read, so I thought of writing an article and share what I have to say. I hope that you find my article interesting to read and also be published. Writing stories has inspired me to keep my head up and smile, being 7 months in.
Andrew, from a prison in TAS
Hey mate, I received your letter the other day & I appreciate your reply on my story "Time Stands Still For No Man." Today we all got a copy of Issue 17 of About Time & to see that you put my story on the 2nd page made me smile. All the lads were quick to yell out & say "Is that you Leb." I was like yes boys, they were all moved by my story so I guess it done the job it was meant to do.
David, from a prison in NSW
The paper continues to be enjoyed and promoted by me and others.
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!
Jonathan, from a prison in VIC
Hello Editors,
Once again I offer congratulations for your January edition and I have attached an entry to your short story competition, thank you for the opportunity.
I should tell you that there were many articles in the January issue which led to much debate and dare I say 'hope' for some improvements to various subjects you published – well done.
As always, thanks for your continued valuable publishing and I look forward to your next edition. All the best for 2026.
Sina, from a prison in QLD
Thank you for taking the time to read my poetry submission.
Donna, from a prison in SA
Firstly, I would like to say how great it is to finally have a nationwide paper focused solely on prisoners and issues relating to prisoners as people, not just prisoners. I look forward to each edition and hope it is here to stay!
Scott, from a prison in VIC
I read the paper front to back and everyone’s stories and enjoy them.
The paper is very informative of what’s happening within the system and around the country and also gives great advice. It really helps to clear my head, I enjoy the paper. Knowing you’re not alone in how we all feel in here. I really do feel this way. To me I feel positive to hear how others feel about programs and how I can relate the same feelings, life etcetera.
Thank you all at the paper for taking the time to publish and help us all by your generosity.
Anonymous, from a prison in VIC
Again thanks for the great mag.
Subscriber
Thanks for the publication, it is very impressive.
Subscriber
I love your work!
Shannon, from a prison in VIC
Thanks About Time. I truly appreciate your time and change, what you do is priceless.
Subscriber
I subscribed last week and have just finished reading the paper edition of About Time. I wanted to write to say 'congratulations'. The paper is a remarkable achievement, a rare and valuable 'good thing' in a difficult and draining system. I am particularly impressed with the paper's focus on fostering community, as well as its national scope.
I showed a copy to my client today and he confirmed that copies have been freely available to him during his last stint on remand in Victoria. He says that it has helped him to start thinking about the Redress Scheme and whether he may be eligible for compensation.
I am impressed by the positive tone of the paper, and the contributions from persons in custody.
Reading the paper made me want to contribute somehow… well done, keep up the good work.
Muhamed, from a prison in VIC
Thank you once again for your amazing publication. I know I speak for myself and many of the other men here at Middleton Correction Centre when I say that your publication is valued and appreciated and we look forward to its arrival each month. It certainly becomes a central discussion point in the yard in the days following its distribution here. Both myself and the other men within my accommodation lodge read over every addition repeated. Thank you for your incredible work in continuing to support, connect, and inform incarcerated men and women across the country.
LM, donor
Thank you! I spread the word About Time when I can.
Jonathan, donor
Keep up the fight.
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.
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.
Alex, from a prison in VIC
I thank you for your time & consideration regarding these matters & I greatly look forward to hearing from you.
Oliver, from a prison in VIC
Thanks for your newspaper and printing our lives that hopefully are read by people who can make a difference. Thank you also for the encouraging articles, and inspiring us to write pieces like this one, for the short story competition. Hopefully this is the first of many time I can positively contribute.
Steven, from a prison in QLD
Thank you About Time, you are all doing a good job.
Todd, prison in VIC
To the publishers of About Time newspaper,
Thanks to all the opportunities the paper brings to prisoners.
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.
Jessica, from a prison in NSW
I have been reading About Time since issue one and I'm loving it so far.
David, from a prison in NSW
Thank you and congratulations on the publication of the national prisoner's newspaper, 'About Time'. Already, men in my pod are taking up the opportunity, with great enthusiasm, to write of their honest experiences and share their many talents grateful to be given a voice. To be respected. Your initiative is offering many the 'therapy' necessary to earn back self-respect and enabling them to choose to find a purpose for good, while they make their amends during their incarceration. They say: 'The pen is mightier than the sword'. To see their contributions in print will be the first time for some that they have been 'heard' and may enable them with respect to transform their lives - to honestly rehabilitate. The paper is well-read and discussed. The smiles on faces knowing some of the contributors is encouraging.
Rainie, from a prison in WA
First I would like to thank you and those involved in creating and publishing the National Prison Newspaper and all its content, it really resonated with me.
Jane, donor
Best wishes for this humane project.
Morgan, donor
Amazing work!
Nathan, from a prison in TAS
Since receiving your paper it’s great to be aware and see the similar patterns in prisons and how we can make a better environment.
Brilliant, fabulous, fantastic, awesome About Time.
Subscriber
Have been loving getting About Time in the mail each month, thanks for the fantastic work you do for our incarcerated community!
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.
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.
Jonathan, from a prison in VIC
Congrats once again for your August edition and of course your pick of my poem for publishing! Thanks again always for your continued publication. Keep up the good work.
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.
Debra, donor
You DO make a difference!
The Black Wraith, from a prison in VIC
Hello, firstly I must congratulate you for your latest publication and I must tell you that many people including officers read and enjoy, so keep it up.
Andrew, from a prison in NSW
I would love to hear back from you guys. Please let me know what you think. I have much more writing I can send in, and if you have any advice on how I can build and develop a career as a writer and also how I can improve my writing, it would be greatly appreciated.
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.
Dolas, from a prison in QLD
P.S – Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all staff @ 'About Time'. It is nice to have someone on our side for a change.
Teacher
Some of my students enjoy writing, and I’d like to try and get them to write for About Time. Seeing other people in custodial settings writing articles might inspire them.
Grant, from a prison in NSW
I'll finish by saying I absolutely love the paper. Thanks to everyone involved.
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!"
David, from a prison in NSW
Your December, 2024 issue of 'About Time' lived up to a standard of quality journalism second to none. Thanks to your staff and all who contributed letters, stories, artwork, sound information, legal opinions, humour, therapies to enable transformation and the like.
