Probation was a system of supervision over children convicted of an offence or charged neglect. When introduced in 1905, probation officers also monitored women who received boarding out allowance to care for their own children, as well as truancy. Probation officers provided both criminal and care supervision. Probation now resembles the adult version and is the preserve of the Department of Juvenile Justice.
Sources used to compile this entry: Ludlow, Christa, 'For their own good' : a history of the Albion Street Children's Court and Boys' Shelter, Network of Community Activities, Surry Hills, 1994, 47 pp.
Prepared by: Naomi Parry
Created: 27 October 2011, Last modified: 13 February 2018