In Batemans Bay Children's Court on Thursday, prosecutor Sergeant Marc Chaplin opposed bail for the 17-year-old, who is accused of the murder of Canberra man Peter Keeley.

He and two co-accused cannot be identified due to their ages.

They are charged with murder and taking/detaining in company with intent to get advantage and occasioning actual bodily harm.

Defence lawyer Geoff Knox said his client had made several admissions but did not admit "the most serious allegation".

Mr Knox told the court there was an "egregious breach of privacy of a juvenile" after NSW Police released "significant footage" of the teen's arrest on February 13.

He said a residence was clearly identified and the face of the accused was "badly pixelated".

Mr Knox said his client's father received a "barrage of phone calls" shortly after the footage was published, from people who had seen the arrest on TV or social media.

"The horse has bolted," he said.

Sergeant Chaplin said he was not in a position to comment as he had not spoken to the police liaison unit about the footage, but he would inquire.

Magistrate Doug Dick said a residence was clearly identified.

If there was a breach, the person who published the footage "may well be liable" and he asked the prosecutor to take appropriate action.

He said it was difficult in modern times to control social media, but if there was a breach, action was expected.

Opposing bail, Sergeant Chaplin said admissions were made regarding the planning and motivation of the alleged crime.

However, Mr Knox argued the most extreme charge could be amended in the future, there was no flight risk and conditions could be placed on his client to protect the community.

He said any case which involved significant forensic evidence would be before the court for an extended period of time, and would therefore extend the amount of time the accused spent in custody.

He said delays in results were well-known "in this court".

Mr Knox said it was the first time his client had appeared at court, his family was supportive and was happy to house him.

He said there would be strict reporting and curfew conditions.

"Given his youth and presumption, he (should) be granted bail," Mr Knox said.

Magistrate Dick acknowledged the teen had no previous record, had family support, the cause of death was inconclusive and there was no risk of flight.

But the prosecution's case was "very strong" and protecting the community was "paramount".

If convicted, "a custodial sentence is inevitable," Magistrate Dick said.

"I'm not satisfied the unacceptable risk can be mitigated."

The teen was refused bail and will reappear in court on April 23.

Two co-accused did not apply for bail on February 20 and it was formally refused. They will reappear in court on April 23.

Magistrate Dick offered the teen, who remained calm throughout the proceedings, a chance to say goodbye to his family sitting in the courtroom.

"I love you all. I hope you are well and happy," the teen said.