Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT)

The Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment (MERIT) program is designed for offenders who are eligible for bail and who show potential for treatment and rehabilitation. The Program aims to reduce drug-related crime by enabling eligible offenders to undertake assessment and treatment

MERIT is voluntary and provides the offender with an opportunity to engage in treatment prior to their hearing. The offender's progress in treatment may be considered during the final hearing and sentence.

MERIT accepts referrals for assessment from multiple sources, including police, with formal endorsement of participation in the Program resting with magistrates.

Police can formally refer eligible offenders for MERIT assessment as a condition of police bail.

Offenders deemed appropriate for MERIT can commence treatment immediately after referral.

Participants are closely case-managed throughout their bail period by specially trained health professionals. The magistrate receives regular reports on their progress until the court case is finalised at the end of the court bail period, which is usually three months. If the defendant fails to attend treatment, commits further offences, or does not comply with bail conditions, the magistrate is notified and appropriate sanctions are applied.

Offenders charged with strictly indictable drug offences, violent or sexual assault offences are excluded.