New Referral Platform for COATS Program
ACSO has implemented a new web referral platform for the COATS program (Community Offenders Advice and Treatment Service) that provides security and efficiency enhancements to ensure our shared client data is kept safe. All Bail, Bridging, Diversion, Drug Court, StepOut, Parole and Youth Justice referral forms are now accessed through the new referral platform. Please read the FAQs for further information and watch the self-guide video below.
Return to the Professional Referrals page.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the change happen?
The new referral platform is expected to go live on 18/3/24. We will conduct testing with a trial group in the preceding week and will be communicating any change of dates or significant updates.
What are we changing?
The Bail, Bridging, Diversion, Drug Court, Step Out, Parole and Youth Justice referral forms on the ACSO website will be changing to a new consolidated referral platform.
The referral process will not be changing for:
- Clients currently in the community on a Community Corrections Order (CCO)
- Clients currently in custody who will be subject to a Community Corrections Order upon release from imprisonment (CCOIMP)
Who will be affected?
Courts Services Victoria, Youth Justice and Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Treatment providers who refer clients to ACSO will be affected by this change. CCS staff who submit referrals for Bridging will be affected, clients on CCO and CCOIMP orders will not be affected.
Where can I access the new referral platform?
The referral platform will be accessed in the same place on the ACSO Referrals webpage. The page will be updated once the new platform is live. Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge are the recommended browsers for the referral platform.
What are the key differences with the existing referral forms?
- Referrals will now be submitted through single entry point to assist referrers in selecting the correct form.
- Eligibility criteria and acknowledgement of client consent have been added to all forms.
- The forms have been enhanced to capture client, referrer, and appointment information consistently.
- A reference number and referral status updates will be emailed to the primary email address of the referrer.
- Referrers will have an option to retain a copy of the referral for their records.
- The Client Services Unit (CSU) will no longer be communicating on email threads that contain Personal Health Information (PHI). Please ensure you record your reference number for any follow-up enquiries. Please note the reference number relates only to the referral and if it is accepted you will receive a Penelope case ID which can then be used to identify your client.
How can I get further support?
Before requesting support, please ensure you have read this document and watched the instructional video that will be accessible on the ACSO Referrals webpage. If you still require support, please contact CSU on 9413 7196 or email intake@acso.org.au
