The youth, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was brought before Dubbo Children's Court on charges of common assault, contravening the restrictions of an apprehended violence order and damaging property.

He was arrested after a window was broken and a man was assaulted during an altercation at a West Dubbo house on February 17.

The charges were set down for hearing after not guilty pleas were entered.

Magistrate Andrew Eckhold was told the youth wanted his bail varied to enter rehabilitation.

"A bed has become available at Mac River,'' a solicitor told the court.

"Drugs and alcohol have been an ongoing issue. He needs to get on top of the problem and hopes to change direction.''

Mac River is an eight-bed residential rehabilitation centre for young people aged from 13 to 18 years.

Located near Dubbo in a rural setting on the banks of the Macquarie River, the centre offers individualised programs including counselling, life skills, education, case work, personal development and sport and recreation.

Residents are involved in feeding chickens, tending a vegetable garden and raising poddy calves during three months of rehabilitation aimed at providing the best possible recovery from drug and alcohol issues.

Magistrate Eckhold approved the bail variation and wished the youth the best of luck at rehabilitation.

He was ordered to obey carers, Juvenile Justice workers and Mac River staff.

"Things have been out of control (for you),'' the magistrate said.

"Work hard at Mac River, do well and think about what has been going on.''

The youth will reappear in court on May 2.