New sentencing Act gives more flexibility

The ACT Government today passed legislation to give courts greater flexibilty in their sentences.

The Crimes (Sentencing) Act 2005 gives magistrates and judges the option of combination sentences — so jail terms can be combined with periodic detention or suspended sentences for example.

It updates good behaviour orders so they can have conditions placed on them including community service, probation or participation in rehabilitation programs. The Act also introduces non-association and place restriction orders to help prevent reoffending.

“The Crimes (Sentence Administration) Act 2005 sets out the obligations of offenders serving each type of sentence and sets out the consequences for failing to meet their obligations. It simplifies procedures for addressing breaches of good behaviour orders, periodic detention and parole.”