The Sentencing Advisory Council (SAC) has released a new report titled "Reforming Sentence Deferrals in Victoria: Final Report." This comprehensive examination explores the practice of deferring sentences, a tool that has been part of Victoria's judicial system since 2002, allowing courts to postpone sentencing for up to 12 months.
The report highlights that sentence deferrals serve as an effective therapeutic measure, aiding in the rehabilitation of complex and vulnerable offenders while enhancing community protection. By participating in rehabilitation programs during the deferral period, offenders can potentially avoid prison sentences in favour of community orders, thereby reducing the risk of reoffending.
The SAC conducted extensive consultations, including surveys and stakeholder feedback, to inform the 10 key recommendations presented in the report. These recommendations aim to improve the utilisation and effectiveness of sentence deferrals without compromising their flexibility and informality.
For more details, read the full report here