The Criminal Justice Diversion Program provides mainly first time offenders with the opportunity to avoid a criminal record by undertaking conditions that will benefit the offender, victim and the community as a whole. It is an opportunity to avoid a court hearing. It is necessary to plead guilty to the offence to access the program.

Should you be 17 or under, the Ropes Program is available to avoid a court hearing.

Always ask your lawyer or the magistrate if you are eligible for a diversion or Ropes program.

Go to Magistrates’ Court of Victoria for further information.