Overview
- The Parramatta District Court imposed an intensive corrections order of one year and one month with 500 hours of community service and mandated counselling.
- Joseph El Jer was disqualified from driving until late 2026 and must reapply for a licence after the ban expires.
- Judge Philip Ingram highlighted an extensive driving record that included 12 prior licence suspensions and warned of a far harsher outcome for any future offending.
- Court documents state he ignored closure notices and depth indicators showing about 1–1.3 metres of water before the ute was swept into Graddle Creek, with police divers later recovering the five‑year‑old’s body.
- Local authorities have begun building a bridge to replace the low‑lying Graddle/Genaren Creek causeway after years of community campaigning.