WDOs are supervised by organisations or health practitioners called WDO sponsors. They have special approval from the NSW government to supervise WDOs.
Who is eligible?
A person is eligible to participate in the scheme if they are homeless, have a mental illness, intellectual disability, cognitive impairment, serious addiction to drugs or alcohol, or are in acute financial hardship (i.e. on a Centrelink benefit).
How does a WDO clear fines debt?
The WDO Scheme enables eligible people to clear up to $1000 a month from their fines by participating in medical, mental health or drug and alcohol treatment, counselling (including case management), financial counselling, vocational, educational or life skills courses, or voluntary work. Fines are cleared at different rates depending on the activity. The rates range from $30-$50 per hour.
How can my organisation become a WDO sponsor?
Not-for-profit organisations, government agencies and health practitioners (i.e. registered doctors, nurses and psychologists) can become WDO sponsors. To get your organisation approved you can complete an online application form and submit it to the Department of Attorney General and Justice.
Administrative requirements are not onerous. Monthly reporting of clients’ hours is done online directly to the SDRO. Applications are available according to type of organisation:
More information
Legal Aid NSW, in partnership with the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT), is conducting state-wide education and legal assistance programs to expand the WDO scheme.
For more information please contact:
South Coast, Southern NSW & Far West: (02) 4228 8299
North Coast & North Eastern NSW: (02) 6551 7899
Central West & North West NSW: (02) 6362 8022
South West & Western Sydney: (02) 9601 1200
Other areas & general enquiries: (02) 9219 5000
Email: WDO@legalaid.nsw.gov.au
