Community Probation Services has begun trials this month using electronic monitoring equipment incorporating GPS technology. The trials are using CPS staff in the first instance, not offenders, to test the potential application of GPS monitoring of offenders on sentences of home detention, parole and extended supervision with residential restrictions.

CPS General Manager, Katrina Casey, said the aim of the trial is to test the usefulness of GPS monitoring in a wide range of geographical situations and environments.

"The trials will provide us with an indication as to whether GPS technology can assist CPS in its purpose to minimise the risk of harm to others, reduce any likelihood of reoffending, and managing an offender's compliance with their sentence or order."

Initial trials will use CPS staff, from across the country.

Ms Casey said although the initial trial does not involve offenders it will replicate conditions of offender risk management and sentence type. The success of the trial will inform decisions about whether GPS should be further considered and whether the trial should be extended to involve trialling the equipment on offenders.

In addition to testing the suitability of GPS tracking around set boundary zones the offender is restricted to, such as an offender's residence, the trial would also explore the use of GPS technology to create zones that the offender is excluded from. Exclusion zones could include school and parks, the residences of victims and people who had sought a protection order against the offender.

Ms Casey said CPS had previously conducted GPS trials in 2006/07. However, due to technology shortcomings Corrections did not follow through with implementation. Recent technological improvements, had overcome some of these issues and meant that it was timely to look again at whether GPS electronic monitoring could enhance the risk management of offenders.