Corrections Victoria has issued a harsh rebuff following reports that convicted serial rapist John Xydias took part in a competition dubbed “Prison Masterchef”.

These reports are incorrect and Corrections Victoria is concerned about the impact this false impression could have on victims of crime.

The story ran on The Age website on Tuesday morning, before it was corrected in the afternoon.

“These reports are incorrect and Corrections Victoria is concerned about the impact this false impression could have on victims of crime,” a Corrections Victoria spokesperson said.

“Corrections Victoria only provides accredited TAFE courses run by TAFE facilitators, as part of programs to help reduce repeat crime which ultimately helps protect the community,” she said.

The spokesperson denied any prize had been awarded in the form of “chocolates for the prison shop”, as reported in the Age article.

Greek Australian John Xydias will serve a minimum of 20 years’ jail before being eligible for parole.