An overview discusses the content of community service order-legislation being readied for 1984-85 and the status of the use of community service orders in various Australian jurisdictions. Variations in specific provisions, costs, hours of service, and numbers of offenders involved are summarized. Issues of concern to all jurisdictions are explained, including portability, compensation and accident insurance, presentence reports, the types of organizations involved, staff training, community service orders for adolescents, the use of community service as a genuine alternative to imprisonment, fine options, considerations regarding Aborigines, and workloads. Reports from each jurisdiction, some with figures and tables, are included.