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Thirty years ago, something was missing in Australia’s prisons. Inmates were serving time, but starved of hope. What they needed wasn’t just rehabilitation, but grace.

A small group of volunteers believed something powerful could happen when people behind bars were met with the unconditional love of Jesus. That was the beginning of a ministry that, over the next three decades, would reach thousands and transform lives from the inside out.

This year marks 30 years of Kairos Prison Ministry Australia—three decades of bringing hope, healing and the Gospel to people affected by incarceration.

To celebrate, Kairos is hosting events in Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide, inviting past and present volunteers, supporters, and anyone curious about the work to come and give thanks.

Kairos Prison Ministry Australia Chair, Colin Stiller, says,

“We’ve seen thousands of lives changed. Men, women and young people have experienced God’s love, many for the first time. Now we’re looking back at that legacy and celebrating God at work over 30 years of Kairos in Australia—and we’re looking ahead, praying and hoping that many more will join us in this life-transforming journey.”

Each Anniversary Event will include music, testimonies, afternoon tea, and powerful stories from people whose lives have been changed by the ministry.

For those unable to attend in person, a livestream option is available—making it possible to tune in from anywhere across Australia.

Key event dates:

• Brisbane – 20 September at Redeemer Lutheran College, Rochedale
• Sydney – 27 September at Stanhope Anglican Church, Stanhope Gardens
• Adelaide – 25 October at Burnside City Uniting Church, Tusmore

A Legacy of Changing Lives

Founded in Australia in 1995, Kairos began when a small group of visionaries, inspired by the work of Kairos Prison Ministry International in the United States, launched the first Australian program at Parramatta Correctional Centre.

Since then, more than 720 Kairos programs have been delivered at 50 correctional and community locations across Australia, reaching more than 10,000 men, women and youth through its core ministries: Kairos Inside, Kairos Outside, and Kairos Torch.

Past Kairos participant and current Kairos volunteer Sue Hodges says,

“My husband and I, we weren’t Christians when we came to Kairos. But since coming to Kairos in 2009, we both started to go to church. He and I serve on teams together and attend conferences together. We’ve been married over 40 years now and [Kairos] is a part of how the Lord works in our lives.”

Each program is grounded in the belief that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Whether inside a prison or in the wider community, Kairos creates safe spaces where people can hear the Gospel, encounter forgiveness, and begin new journeys of faith and healing.

Deborah Poulton, Chief Operating Officer, says,

“This celebration isn’t just looking back. It’s a call to keep going. The need has never been greater, and we’re so thankful for the faithful volunteers, supporters and prayer partners who make this ministry possible.”

Welcoming the Community

The 30th celebrations will also feature a visit from Evelyn Lemly, CEO of Kairos Prison Ministry International, who will speak at the Brisbane and Sydney events.

Attendees will hear firsthand from participants and volunteers whose lives have been changed by the ministry. These stories reflect the power of consistent, Christ-centred love and the unique role Kairos plays in changing lives from the inside out for those impacted by incarceration.

Event Details at a Glance

• What: Kairos 30th Anniversary Celebrations
• When & Where:
  • 20 Sept – Brisbane (Redeemer Lutheran College)
  • 27 Sept – Sydney (Stanhope Anglican Church)
  • 25 Oct – Adelaide (Burnside City Uniting Church)
• Time: 12.45pm–4.30pm
• Register here.

For Interviews or Media Enquiries

Contact: projects@kairos.org.au

Interviews available with Chair, Colin Stiller (QLD) and Chief Operating Officer, Deborah Poulton (ACT)