Ex-judge wants computers in NSW jail cells

A former Supreme Court judge is leading a renewed push for NSW prisoners to have access to computers in their cells, arguing it would improve access to education and help reduce reoffending.

John Dowd QC, president of the Community Justice Coalition, believes computers could also allow domestic violence and de-radicalisation counselling to be delivered online.

He points to the ACT where inmates have had access to computers in their cells for nine years.

"Prisoners here are not necessarily different to the prisoners in the ACT," Mr Dowd told AAP on Thursday.

"That's the example we would like others to use and we've had encouragement from the approach of the Queensland government and Northern Territory government who are working towards this."

Mr Dowd said computers could be introduced into a 600-cell jail for an estimated cost of $230,000 and then $120,000 a year. He accused the NSW government of "dragging its feet" on the issue.

Inmates across NSW can currently access more than 1000 computers and Corrective Services NSW is also trialling laptops without internet access in cells so prisoners can prepare for trials.

CSNSW said the importance of giving inmates access to computers for education and rehabilitation was recognised.

"Under the prison bed expansion program, CSNSW is also looking at ways of incorporating technology into new correctional centres and expansions," the department said in a statement.

It is incrementally rolling out technology but adopted a "cautious" approach by prioritising community safety, the statement added.

Mr Dowd said better access to education would reduce recidivism rates and any security concerns could be easily addressed.

"It's not difficult to put in protections to prevent abuses," he said.