AUSTRALIAN BROADCASTING CORPORATION 28 September 06 Australian prisoners learn to handle crocodiles
A unique prisoner rehabilitiation program has been introduced in the Northern Territory in Australia's far north.
Five inmates from Darwin's Berrimah Prison have been on a 12 week crocodile handling course at a nearby farm.
As well as caring for the crocodiles, the inmates have also worked in the meatroom and helped maintain the reptiles' pens.
The farm's owner, Mick Burns, says some of the inmates have expressed an interest in continuing the work once they are released from prison.
"It's a pretty demanding job out here, it is very hot. It is testing," Mr Burns said.
"A lot of people are not comfortable in and around crocodiles, so if we can broaden the number of people who can work on a farm, then that's a benefit."
Australian prisoners learn to handle crocodiles