Dear New Member~
I'd like to give you a warm welcome here and assure you that you are not alone in this situation.
Briefly the things you can do are rather limited however here are some suggestions:
Keep in as much contact as you can with letters and visits if they are possible. This can remind your sister there is a world outside and more importantly that you care about her
If possible ensure she has ongoing legal representation by a lawyer familiar with the system. This can be useful for parole and early release schemes as well as for other matters.
Also provided it is practical assure here you will be there for her when she is released. While inside a person develops a mindset and and will need a fair amout of practical and emotional help to adjust to life, social interactions and employment -and quite possibly mental health issues when back in the world.
As a portion of society can be hostile it may seem easier for her to keep in contact with those she has been introduced to inside, she realy does need alternatives.
While incarcerated if there is any possibility for an occupation such as study that can be good, not only reminding her of an outside perspective but maybe also giving an occupation on particular days plus the possibility of a qualification
In each state/territory there are support groups for the people close to those in jail and I"d suggest you join one. There is a national list of some of the support groups here (please be aware while they seem fine I'm not guaranteeing any, I guess you have to use your judgment).
http://www.barsbetween.org/resources/organisations-australia/
I'd also suggest skimming (too long to read) through a very long thread in this forum and see how very many others have coped, there is a fair variety of situations beyond just the title. You may even wish to put in a post at the end of it and see if anyone responds.
Sadness,grief and regret over sons incarceration
This is an ongoing, stressful and sad time for you, and it is easy to think of oneself as a bottomless well of strenght. May I ask if you have any support for yourself? A family member or friend perhaps to talk with. They do not have to fix anything, just listen and care.
You know you will always be welcome here
Croix
