Mr Jacobson said the unique approach of Macquarie was beneficial at assisting offenders through programs, education, promoting a good workplace culture and positive interactions.

"At the end of the day, with the exception of our lifers, everyone is released. So what kind of person do you want back in the community?," Mr Jacobson said.

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"I've had a former inmate move next door to me and he was a high-risk offender who went on to kill someone. If we do nothing in prison to support change, nothing positive will follow."

Mr Jacobson was selected to roll out the Five Minute Intervention program for all corrective NSW staff, which aims to turn everyday conversations with inmates into opportunities for change.

He said as part of Corrective Services NSW effort to reduce re-offending, a major element is building respect between prison staff and offenders through positive interactions.

This, he believes, helps inmates make a successful reintegration when they're released.

"Rehabilitation is more likely if the prison environment provides positive reinforcement and we know staff attitudes and actions impact how people in custody think and respond," Mr Jacobson said.

The Five Minute Intervention program is based on a United Kingdom program which gives officers a toolkit of skills to interact with inmates. The program aims to turn everyday conversations into rehabilitative opportunities using a variety of behaviour therapy principles including active listening and affirmation.

"It's really exciting to be at a prison that encourages new ideas and innovations like the 'Five Minute Intervention'," Mr Jacobson said.

"Staff and inmates see Macquarie as an incredible opportunity to work together to reduce criminal attitudes, inspire a real go at reintegrating and ultimately reduce re-offending."