This original instruction sign was mounted beside prisoner telephones at Pentridge Prison. Titled “H.M. Prison Pentridge – Prisoner Telephone System”, it provides step-by-step instructions explaining how prisoners were required to place a telephone call.

Rather than dialling a telephone number directly, prisoners first pressed the # key to activate the system, then selected one of four pre-programmed numbers corresponding to an approved telephone contact. They were then required to enter their CRN (Corrections Reference Number) before the system automatically connected the call, provided sufficient phone credit was available. The sign also warns that calls would be automatically terminated when the allotted time limit expired.

The instructions reflect the highly controlled nature of prisoner telephone access. Calls could only be made to approved numbers, prisoners were individually identified through their CRN, and the use of prepaid phone credits and automatic time limits ensured that communications were carefully monitored and managed.

Historical Significance:Telephone contact with family and friends became an increasingly important part of prisoner welfare during the late twentieth century. By introducing computer-controlled telephone systems such as the one described on this sign, Corrections Victoria was able to balance prisoners’ access to outside contact with institutional security requirements.