A good behaviour bond is where the Children’s Court adjourns proceedings against a child without conviction. Under the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (Vic), a good behaviour bond generally lasts for 12 months. A good behaviour bond may last for 18 months in exceptional circumstances for a child aged over 15.
The Children’s Court imposes good behaviour bonds in around 20% of cases (2023–24).
Conditions of Good Behaviour Bonds
During the period of the good behaviour bond, the child must:
- be of good behaviour
- pay a bond
- appear before the court if required
- comply with any special conditions set by the court (like attending treatment or counselling).
If the child complies with the conditions of the good behaviour bond for the period of the adjournment, the court will dismiss the charge and return the bond without recording a conviction.
Breaching a Good Behaviour Bond
A child may breach the conditions of the good behaviour bond or may no longer be able to comply with the order. When this happens, the court may declare the bond forfeited (that is, keep the bond money) and impose no further penalty. Or the court may hold another hearing and cancel the good behaviour bond, vary the order, or impose a different sentence.
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