Access to money

All people in prison have a trust account, which they can use to buy approved grocery items on a weekly basis.

Trust accounts are limited to a maximum of $200 and prisoners cannot spend more than $70 per week.

How to deposit money

There are a number of ways family and friends can deposit money into a person's trust account in prison.

Cash cannot be sent to prisoners.

In person at the prison

Deposit cash while visiting.

Online banking

Electronic deposits can be made through online banking app on a mobile phone or desktop computer.

Westpac bank customers: Follow the below step-by-step guide to make deposits via online banking

1. Log into your online banking
2. Select bill payments
3. Search for the prison bank account from the drop down box
4. Include the PRN number as your reference
5. Enter the amount you would like to transfer and then click confirm

Steps for making electronic deposits will vary between other banks. For example BNZ customers need to add the prison's trust account as a payee before electronic payments can be made. People should contact their bank directly if there are any queries.

Westpac branch

You can also make deposits in person at your local Westpac branch or by using a SMART ATM located in the lobby of Westpac branches.

A person doesn't need to be a Westpac customer to make a deposit at the branch or through their SMART ATM.

How to use a Westpac SMART ATM

Note: You will need the bank account number of the prison account you are depositing into.

1. Select Deposit (you can use the Smart ATM at Westpac even if you are not a Westpac customer)
2. Select type of funds (notes / coins )
3. Enter the prison bank account number and confirm
4. Include the PRN number in the reference section
5. Feed the funds into the Smart ATM and click confirm
6. If you require further information, have a look at Westpac’s Smart ATM guidelines