What is a Community Corrections Order?

A community corrections order ('CCO') is a sentencing order that a Judge or Magistrate can impose. It is one step below prison and one step above a fine. It can still be a harsh punishment with stringent conditions placed on you, but it is a much better option than being imprisoned. The purpose of a CCO is to allow people who commit wrong-doing to be both punished and rehabilitated while remaining in the community. Now that suspended sentences are no longer available, the Court will often look to a CCO as an appropriate sentence where imprisonment is not appropriate.

When can a community corrections order be given?

A CCO is available if the offence is punishable by more than 5 penalty units, which is most offending. If after hearing our submissions the Judge or Magistrate thinks a CCO is appropriate, they will order a CCO assessment with a worker from the Department of Corrections. Corrections will conduct a thorough interview and determine your suitability to be