KWOOP Seminar Series: Diversion Programs and Outcomes

Join us for an engaging session that combines research and real programme experience about women's diversion programs in the criminal legal system. We'll share research findings alongside practical lessons from two innovative programs working with women at risk of both domestic violence and criminal justice system involvement.

The Miranda Project - a gender-specific programme providing holistic support to vulnerable women attending court, on community orders or exiting prison through casework, group activities, counselling and connections with other services.

Intellectual Disability Rights Service (IDRS) Justice Advocacy Service (JAS) - operating across NSW with over 40 Advocates and Diversion Coordinators, plus an extensive network of trained volunteers who provide crucial support at courts, police stations and legal appointments. JAS court advocates support women and men with cognitive disability, ensuring clients have access to support persons during police custody and free legal advice from their legal team.

Drug Court NSW – a specialist court that takes a therapeutic approach to sentencing. Operating in Parramatta, Sydney and the Hunter region, it offers eligible participants the opportunity to address underlying drug dependence through a structured program of treatment, case management and judicial supervision, with the goal of reducing recidivism and supporting long-term recovery.

MERIT (Magistrates Early Referral Into Treatment) Program – a voluntary, community-based initiative that allows eligible defendants with drug or alcohol issues to access treatment and support services prior to sentencing. MERIT operates across NSW and provides an important opportunity for early intervention and recovery-focused casework at the front end of the legal process.

The workshop explores effective approaches and implementation challenges in the Australian context, examining how these complementary programs assist women through different touchpoints in the criminal justice system. Learn how both organisations work to help women live lives free from the criminal justice system and domestic violence, from initial police contact through to post-release support.

Participants will gain insights from both research evidence and the practical experience of these established programmes. These learnings can be applied to improve your own organisation's programs and understand the spectrum of support needed for women in the criminal legal system.

As with all our events, this session will be held online over lunch time. Our presenters know that you're busy professionals and won't be offended if you eat your lunch while they present.