15.3 - Probation order

A probation order is essentially a supervised order, for a period between six months and three years, in the community under the supervision of Corrective Services (and only with the consent of the offender).

Conditions of a probation order may include that the offender must:

• report to their supervising officer as required; and/or
  
• take part in counseling or other programs; and/or
• advise of any changes of place of residence; and/or
• other conditions the Court sees fit.

The Court can also impose requirements that the offender submit to medical, psychiatric or psychological treatment. This order is clearly to rehabilitate, rather than punish offenders who the Court considers are in need of supervision and assistance. Difficulties arise if the offender fails to come to appointments (especially the first one), misses counseling sessions or falls out of touch with their supervising officer. Each of these events is a breach of the probation order and exposes the offender to arrest and re-sentencing for the original offence as well as a further penalty for the breaching event.