Sydney Tutor Appears at Parramatta Local Court on Child Sexual Touching Charges

A 51-year-old private tutor has appeared in Parramatta Local Court after being charged with multiple counts of intentionally sexually touching a child aged between 10 and 16. The alleged incidents, which reportedly took place during private lessons, are deeply serious under NSW law. Our Parramatta Criminal Lawyers explain how these charges are framed, what the law requires for conviction, and possible defences.

A 51-year-old private tutor has been charged with multiple counts of intentionally sexually touching a child after an investigation by the NSW Police Child Abuse Squad. The matter was listed at Parramatta Local Court following the man’s arrest in Sydney’s south west.

On 28 August 2025, police commenced inquiries after receiving a report of alleged sexual misconduct during private lessons. Detectives allege that the tutor engaged in unlawful contact with a student on multiple occasions.

He was arrested the following day and taken to Cabramatta Police Station, where he was charged with seven offences of intentionally sexually touching a child aged between 10 and 16 years, contrary to section 66DB of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW).

The Law on “Sexual Touching” in NSW

Under section 61HB of the Crimes Act 1900, sexual touching is defined as physical contact that a reasonable person would consider sexual in nature. This can include:

• Sexual touching of another person’s body
• Requiring or coercing another person to engage in sexual contact
• Any act considered sexual when viewed in context

Importantly, where there is a relationship of trust or authority, such as between a tutor and a student, the law treats the breach of trust as an aggravating factor when determining penalties.

Potential Penalties and Sentencing

Each offence of intentionally sexually touching a child carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment. Where there are multiple charges, sentences may be served cumulatively.

In sentencing, NSW courts take into account:

• The age and vulnerability of the victim
• The offender’s role as a teacher, tutor, or person in authority
• Evidence of planning, grooming or repeated conduct
• Any prior criminal history
• Whether there is an early guilty plea or evidence of remorse

Case law and sentencing statistics show that full-time custodial sentences are common outcomes, especially where there has been a significant breach of trust.

Possible Legal Defences

Although the law strictly prohibits sexual touching of a child between 10 and 16, certain defences may apply in limited situations, such as:

• Mistaken belief of age (only in rare circumstances)
• Lack of intent to commit a sexual act
• Disputes of fact — whether the alleged touching occurred at all
• Mental health or cognitive impairment impacting criminal responsibility

Once a defence is raised, the burden is on the prosecution to disprove it beyond reasonable doubt.

Why Legal Advice Is Essential

Being charged with a sexual offence is extremely serious. A conviction can result in imprisonment, registration on the Child Protection Register, and long-lasting personal and professional consequences.

If you or someone you know is facing allegations of sexual touching, it is critical to obtain advice from an experienced Parramatta Criminal lawyer for expert legal advice.