The Macquarie Correctional Centre will house 400 inmates and create an extra 220 jobs, more than doubling the number of staff roles at Wellington Correctional Centre.

The rapid nature of its construction had shaved off about two years of building works that more traditional projects would entail, corrections minister David Elliott said.

Work on the facility began six months ago.

The perimeter fence is 80 per cent complete and the medical clinic and inmate reception area will be arriving this week.

It is expected that the facility will be complete mid-year and operational shortly after.

Across NSW, a second rapid-build facility is under construction at Cessnock and planning is underway for two additional rapid-build prisons.

Corrective Services NSW is recruiting more than 1400 new custodial officers and about 100 community corrections officers to support the infrastructure program.

Mr Elliott said the rapid-build facilities were part of a reform agenda to lift standards, reduce reoffending and make the community safer.

“This innovative rapid-build design is a first for NSW and will ensure inmates are engaged in activities including programs to reduce reoffending, education and industries for up to 12 hours per day, compared to six hours a day at similar security facilities,” he said.

“The design allows for correctional officers to have good observation of prisoners at all times, and each dormitory includes a library and computer room.”

Assistant Commissioner of Custodial Corrections Kevin Corcoran said officers would have access to thermal imaging cameras to help stop contraband entering the facility, and a 24/7 Immediate Action Team to respond to incidents.

“We have adopted a design which is backed up by top-notch security,” Mr Corcoran said.

“Correctional offices will move in and test the new procedures, before the facility takes its first inmates around October.”