Penalties and Sentences (Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council) Amendment Bill 2016

Overview

This bill re-establishes the Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council, an independent body that advises on sentencing, researches how sentences are set, and seeks community views. The council had been created in 2010 and dissolved in 2012; this bill brings it back in permanent legislation.

Who it affects

Queenslanders interested in criminal sentencing get a new avenue to have their views heard and to access independent research. The council will have up to 12 members, with at least one Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander member required.

Key changes

• Creates the Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council in the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992
• Council can advise the Attorney-General on sentencing, give the Court of Appeal written views on guideline judgments, and publish research
• Up to 12 members appointed for terms of up to 3 years, with at least one Aboriginal person or Torres Strait Islander
• Council must seek community views on sentencing and report to Parliament each financial year
• Removes the 2012 provision that dissolved the former sentencing advisory council