When a loved one is sent to prison, staying in touch with them is often vital for emotional support and maintaining a strong connection. However, prison calls in Australia work differently from regular phone calls, and the process can seem confusing if you’ve never been through it before. From how inmates make calls to the costs involved and the security measures in place, understanding how it all works can help you stay connected with someone who’s incarcerated.
In this blog, we’ll break down the entire process of how prison calls work in Australia, including how inmates use phones, what an Engine Number for Prisoners is, how you can make cheap inmate calls, and how to receive a call from jail. By the end of this post, you’ll have a better understanding of the system, the rules, and how to save money on calls.
How the Prison Phone System Works in Australia
In Australian prisons, the phone system is carefully managed with a focus on security. Unlike the phones we use every day, prison phones are tightly controlled, and most prisons only allow outgoing calls. Inmates can only use phones set up in specific areas of the facility. These phones are linked to a system that requires an engine number for prisoners, a unique ID for each inmate, which helps the system track who is calling and ensures that all calls are accounted for.
When an inmate wants to call someone outside, they can use the phone to dial the number, but it isn’t as simple as just picking up the receiver. First, the inmate must enter their engine number, which helps the system verify who they are. Then, the recipient of the call has to accept the charges for the call (in most cases). This is why families need to set up an account or be prepared to accept collect calls, where they pay the charges.
The calls are often monitored or recorded for security reasons. This means that while inmates can stay connected with their loved ones, they also have to follow strict rules, and the facility can listen to the calls if needed.
Steps for an Inmate to Make a Call
Making a call from prison involves several steps. When an inmate is ready to make a call, they must first select a phone in the prison that is connected to the official phone system. Then, the inmate enters their Engine Number for Prisoners into the system. This number is crucial because it helps track the call and links it to the correct individual.
Once the inmate’s number is validated, they can dial the phone number of their intended recipient. However, there are some important rules: most inmates are not allowed to call random numbers. They can only call people who are approved and listed on their contact list. Inmates are also usually only allowed to call landline numbers, though some facilities may allow calls to mobile phones.
The recipient of the call is notified and must accept the charges if it’s a collect call, or they can use a prepaid account if they’ve set one up. The call is typically limited to a specific amount of time, such as 10 or 20 minutes. This is done to make sure all inmates have a chance to make calls and to reduce the chance of any abusive behaviour on the phone.
How Much Do Prison Calls Cost in Australia?
One of the biggest concerns for families and friends of incarcerated individuals is the cost of prison calls. Prison calls can be much more expensive than regular phone calls. The exact price depends on a few factors, such as the length of the call, the type of call (prepaid or collect), and the specific prison facility.
In Australia, the cost of a 10-minute call from prison can range from $2 to $5. While this might not sound like a lot, it can add up if the inmate makes frequent calls. Most often, the person receiving the call is responsible for paying for it. This means if you’re getting calls from jail, you’ll need to be prepared for these costs.
For families who want to save money, setting up a prepaid account is a good option. Many service providers offer prepaid plans where you can add money to an account that the inmate can use to make calls. Some companies even offer discounts or cheaper rates if you prepay for a certain amount, which can make cheap inmate calls more accessible.
Why Are Prison Calls Monitored and Recorded?
Security is a big concern when it comes to prison calls. Because inmates can sometimes try to use the phone system to organise illegal activities, plan escapes, or smuggle contraband into the prison, most calls are either monitored or recorded. This is done to make sure that no dangerous or illegal conversations are taking place.
In addition to the monitoring, prisons also have strict rules about who inmates are allowed to call. In most cases, inmates can only contact family members, lawyers, or approved people on their contact list. Some facilities also restrict calls to landline phones, which are easier to monitor than mobile phones.
This system helps ensure that the integrity of the prison and the safety of the public are maintained. However, it also means that conversations from prison are not private and are subject to monitoring by the facility.
How to Set Up Cheap Inmate Calls
If you want to help reduce the cost of inmate calls, one of the best ways to do so is by setting up a prepaid calling account. Most service providers offer this option, and it can be a convenient way to manage the costs of staying in touch with an incarcerated loved one. Prepaid accounts work by allowing you to deposit money into an account, which the inmate can then use to make calls.
Setting up these accounts is usually a straightforward process and can be done either online or over the phone. Many providers also offer different pricing plans, which can help you choose the most affordable option based on how often the inmate will be calling.
Additionally, some providers offer deals or packages that can lower the per-minute rate, making calls from jail less expensive in the long run. It’s a good idea to do some research and compare different options to find the best deal. You can also ask for recommendations from other families in similar situations to ensure you’re getting the best service.
Conclusion
The process of making prison calls in Australia can seem complex at first, but it’s manageable once you understand how it works. From the engine number for prisoners used to verify the inmate’s identity to the costs involved with cheap inmate calls, there are several key factors to consider when trying to stay in touch with a loved one behind bars.
If you’re interested in learning more about how to manage prison calls, set up accounts, or get cheaper rates, check out Prison Engine. They provide helpful information and services that can make it easier for you to stay connected with your incarcerated loved one without breaking the bank.