A Therapeutic Treatment Order issued by the family division of the children’s court requires a child aged at least 10 years and under 15 years of age to attend community based treatment for problem sexual behaviours. The child does not need to be charged or found guilty of a sexual offence.
Child protection will refer the child and their family to a Sexually Abusive Behaviour Treatment Services (SABTs) who will work with the child and family to address the harmful behaviours. Child Protection is responsible for the management of this order and will have regular face-to-face contact with the child, family and SABTS, to make sure the conditions of the order are followed and treatment is helping the child.
Where a Therapeutic Treatment Order is granted by the Court, Child Protection can also apply for a Therapeutic Treatment (Placement) Order. This allows the child to be placed away from home where this is necessary for the treatment. The placement order will only apply for the duration of the treatment order.
Therapeutic Treatment Orders can be made for a maximum of one year, with the option for a single extension of up to an additional year.
Children and families can access therapeutic treatment at a Sexually Abusive Behaviour Treatment Services without being subject to a Therapeutic Treatment Order. There is no cost for the family for their child to attend therapeutic treatment.