Introduction
This topic provides information relating to the management of a request for a change of address for an offender who has any convictions for child sex offending.
Checking the address
If a child sex-offender, including an offender on extended supervision, wishes to change address, a physical check of the proposed address should be completed, and the following information should be gathered:
- proximity to schools, pre-schools etc. (Note: As a guide a child sex offender should not live within one kilometre of such facilities. In cities, 500m may be more realistic.)
- proximity to:
- playgrounds/parks/reserves
- public swimming pools
- churches
- thoroughfares or residences with young families
- shared driveways or facilities, and
- other places frequented by children
- proximity to victims (consult with victim notification register (VNR) coordinator if appropriate)
- proximity to counselling/support services, and availability of transport to these
- any evidence of children under 16 residing at the address
- suitability of other occupants, whether they are aware:
- of the offending
- that the offender is currently on a sentence/order, and
- of the relapse prevention models, and
- neighbours, whether they:
- have children, and
- are aware of the offending.
Check with other involved professionals (e.g. mental health teams, Child, Youth and Family (CYF), police) to determine whether they approve of the proposed address.
Reference: For more information about address suitability for CSOs see Volume 1, Part Vll, Chapter 1 Extended Supervision Special Conditions Report, topic Child Sex Offenders, Determining Address Suitability.
Living with children
Child sex offenders are rarely permitted to reside with children under 16 and will only be authorised to do so in exceptional circumstances.
If there are children residing at the accommodation, then:
- check for any standard or special conditions relating to non-association with children under 16
- alert the extended supervision operations advisor
- discuss the circumstances with the relevant psychologist
- alert CYF, and follow the process set out in the Department of Corrections' agreement with CYF relating to children and young persons, and
- refer to the area or regional manager for approval of the accommodation if considered appropriate.
Note: For offenders on extended supervision, the regional manager must approve the accommodation.
Legislative reference: For standard conditions of extended supervision see section 107(J) Parole Act 2002.
References:
Please refer to the related links section on this page.
- Volume 4, Part II, Chapter 2, Memoranda of Understanding.
- Volume 1, Part I, Chapter 1, Offenders with Convictions against Children.
