Israel Dixon, 20, of Mt Warrigal, appeared in Wollongong bail court on Sunday morning after being arrested over a robbery at the Lake Illawarra Metro Petroleum service station on Shellharbour Road.

READ MORE: Police punched and spat on - charges laid

According to police facts tendered to the court, the robbery occurred at 7.15am on Saturday.

Police allege that was when Dixon - who has no criminal record - walked into the servo, a pink-handled knife hidden in the pocket of his jumper.

He then allegedly pointed the knife at the female attendant behind the counter and said "give me money from the till and smokes".

The attendant turned to the cigarettes behind the counter and began placing them in a plastic bag, which is when Dixon allegedly said "give me the expensive ones".

After allegedly taking hold of the bag containing 37 packs of Winfield cigarettes, Dixon apologised to the attendant and left the store.

Police arrested Dixon in Lindwall Street, Warilla, a short time later.

According to police, Dixon admitted to the crime in an interview, saying he was "extremely remorseful" and wanted to apologise to the female attendant for the "trauma" he put her through.

In court on Sunday police prosecutor Sergeant Tanya Pavlin opposed bail, citing concern Dixon may commit further offences and could fail to return to court given the severity of the charge.

Sgt Pavlin said police could find no criminal record for Dixon.

Legal Aid solicitor Felicity Jackson said Dixon had been homeless for three years before moving in with his best friend's mother.

She said he had mental health and drug issues and would consent to a wide range of bail conditions.

The registrar granted bail, given Dixon's lack of criminal history, provided he continue to live at Mt Warrigal, visited his doctor and followed any treatments prescribed, kept at least 100 metres away from the petrol station and did not contact any prosecution witnesses.

"You need to understand this is a serious offence," the registrar said. "You need to understand there is an expectation you will adhere to these bail conditions."

Dixon will return to Wollongong court on November 4.

We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.