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CREDIT - Bail Support Program

The CREDIT/ Bail Support Program was created from the merge of two court bail programs. In December 2004, in consultation with the Department of Justice and Corrections Victoria the Magistrates' Court combined the Court Referral & Evaluation for Drug Intervention & Treatment Program (CREDIT) and the Bail Support Program (BSP).

The CREDIT/ Bail Support Program aims to achieve the following outcomes:

• Successful completion of bail by defendants who would otherwise be remanded in custody.
• Reduction in the number of defendants remanded due to lack of accommodation and/or treatment or support in the community.
• Successful placement of defendants in drug treatment and/or rehabilitation programs.
• Long term reduction in involvement of defendants in the criminal justice system.

Clients are provided with a range of services while on bail, including:

• Assessment, and development of a plan for treatment and support.
• Case management for up to four months, including support and monitoring.
•  Referrals and linkages to community support and treatment services.

Eligibility:

• Any defendant eligible for a period of bail may be referred to the CREDIT/Bail Support Program for assessment.
• The Program is available to defendants regardless of whether a plea has been entered or whether they intend to plead guilty or not.

Referral to the CREDIT/ Bail Support Program can be made by a Magistrate, police officer, legal representative, court nominee, family or the client themselves. Clients are required to commit to treatment and attend regular support meetings with their case manager.

Further information on the CREDIT/Bail Support Program can be obtained from the brochure, the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria Guide to Court Support & Diversion Services or by contacting the relevant court.