Children’s Court Assistance Scheme

The Children’s Court Assistance Scheme (CCAS) at Macarthur Legal Centre provides free support and nonlegal assistance to children and young people appearing before the Children’s Court of NSW at Campbelltown. CCAS is a service that operates out of several Children’s Courts in NSW, including Campbelltown Children’s Court.  The CCAS service helps young people navigate the court process and access the support they need.

Who CCAS helps

CCAS assists:

• Young people (typically under 18) attending the Children’s Court for Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs_ and criminal charges.
• Young people who need help managing or clearing fines through Work and Development Orders.
• Family members, carers or support people who accompany young clients to court.

When and where can you get help

Our CCAS worker and Aboriginal Legal Assistance worker are available at Campbelltown Children’s Court every Monday morning to assist children and young people appearing in the criminal matters list.

To access CCAS or for more information:
Call (02) 4628 2042 or 0474 705 008

How can CCAS help you

Our CCAS team offers practical, supportive services before, during and after court, including:

Court information and orientation
Helping young people understand the court process, what to expect on the day, and how court procedures work.

In-court support
Meeting young people at the courthouse, providing reassurance, and supporting them through their matter, including helping them communicate with their lawyer and court staff when needed.

Referrals to services
Connecting young people and their families with supports such as housing services, counselling, education and employment assistance, drug and alcohol services, and other welfare services.

Nonlegal assistance and advocacy
While CCAS does not provide legal advice or representation, our team can assist with procedural guidance, referrals, and information to make interacting with the justice system less daunting.

Assistance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people

Our Aboriginal Legal Assistance Worker works closely with CCAS staff to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and young people attending the Children’s Court of NSW at Campbelltown.

Why CCAS matters

Attending court can be stressful and confusing for young people, especially if it’s their first experience with the justice system. CCAS aims to:

• Reduce anxiety and help young people feel supported and informed.
• Improve access to services that address underlying issues such as accommodation, education or health.
• Help families and carers engage more effectively with the court process.

CCAS acts as a trusted first point of contact at court, ensuring that young people are not left to navigate the system on their own.