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ABC News
National
Andrew Lobb

Daniel Johns could face jail over drink-driving crash near Newcastle, court told

Daniel Johns did not appear in Raymond Terrace Local Court. (Supplied)

A magistrate has warned former Silverchair frontman Daniel Johns that he could face jail after pleading guilty to a high-range drink-driving charge.

Johns recorded a blood-alcohol reading more than three times the legal limit after a car crash near Newcastle last month.

The singer is undergoing a three-month rehab program and did not appear at Raymond Terrace Local Court on Monday.

Johns was charged after his car crossed to the wrong side of the Pacific Highway at North Arm Cove and collided with a van on March 23.

The 42-year-old took to social media to explain he had been suffering panic attacks and had been self medicating.

"As you know my mental health is a work in progress," he told his followers.

Johns was represented in court by high-profile lawyer Bryan Wrench who entered a guilty plea on his behalf and indicated his client's desire to expedite proceedings.

The court was presented with lengthy documentation around the singer's battle with depression and other health issues, as well as a commitment by family members to ensure any conditions set by the court would be followed.

Due to the serious nature of the offence, Magistrate Ian Cheetham warned that Johns faced the prospect of a custodial sentence.

A sentencing hearing was set for June 22.

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