An Illawarra man accused of sexually assaulting his 15-year-old step-daughter for more than five months has been refused bail in court, sparking an emotional outburst from the girl's mother.
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The woman turned up to Wollongong Local Court last week to support her partner in his bid for bail, despite the severity of the allegations against him. She burst into tears when Magistrate Susan McGowan refused to release the 38-year-old truck driver, who the court heard was the family's main income earner
Court documents said the teen disclosed the alleged abuse during a counselling session at the beginning of last week, claiming her step-father had repeatedly molested her since New Year's Eve last year.
When interviewed by police, the teen said the sexual interactions took place almost daily and occurred at times when her mother was present in the house.
It is alleged on one occasion her step-father asked her if she wanted "a toilet quickie" and promised to give her a cigarette.
The teen said she initially refused but eventually gave in and they had sex on the bathroom floor while her mother was in the kitchen preparing dinner.
The man was subsequently arrested and charged with six sexual assault offences.
He denied any wrongdoing during an interview with police.
In court last week, defence lawyer Stewart Holt said he intended to defend the charges "vigorously".
"The damage done if he remains in custody will be significant," Mr Holt said.
He also said the man's father would agree to put up $5,000 surety to ensure he turned up to court, however Magistrate McGowan refused to release him on bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations.
