Tough new laws on sexual predators
Issued: Wednesday 31 December 2008
NSW Attorney General John Hatzistergos said tough new measures aimed at safeguarding adults and children from sexual predators come into force tomorrow.
“In what is the most significant crackdown on sex offences in a generation, the Rees Government has created new offences and increased penalties to protect the community from sexual abuse and exploitation,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“The government has moved quickly to draft the laws following a report into sexual offences and child pornography by the Sentencing Council, Chaired by former Justice James Wood.
“They will strengthen our ability to protect adults and children from becoming victims of sexual predators.”
Mr Hatzistergos said the new laws double the maximum penalty for possessing child pornography to 10 years imprisonment and create a new aggravated offence of having sex with a child under 10, which will carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
“Other new offences target sex crimes such as “upskirting” and filming a person engaged in a private act without their consent,” he said.
Maximum penalties for prostituting a child under 14 years will also be increased from 10 to 14 years imprisonment.
Under the changes, “pseudo” images, which can be produced without real children or may be manipulated photos or images of children, will also be recognised as child pornography.
The new laws also stop courts taking into account good character, reputation and lack of a criminal history as mitigating circumstances for offenders when they have used these factors to gain people’s trust to commit their crimes.
“It is often these very characteristics that enable offenders to gain the trust of their victims in the first place”, Mr Hatzistergos said.
New year signals start of new laws
Issued: Wednesday 31 December 2008
A host of new laws will begin in NSW tomorrow, delivering on a number of key legislative reforms by the State Government.
Attorney General John Hatzistergos said the new laws demonstrated the government’s commitment to improving services across the state.
“From new liquor laws to extra support for victims of crime, the NSW Government has implemented a range of new measures that will take effect tomorrow,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“These new laws provide a legislative framework that will deliver for NSW for years to come.”
Looking to the year ahead, Mr Hatzistergos said the Rees Government would continue to bring about change to improve the stability and security of NSW.
“Our work in 2008 shows that we do not shy away from making difficult decisions”, he said.
“In 2009, we will build on this work and keep making improvements for the people of NSW.
“While the Opposition is busy talking, we are cutting red tape and getting on with the job of shaping NSW for the future.”
Mr Hatzistergos said he was particularly proud to deliver a strong law and order package for the New Year, with seven new laws commencing.
These include:
• New offences and increased penalties aimed at preventing sexual abuse and exploitation of children
• Improved court procedures to make it easier for victims of violent crime to give evidence and make Victim Impact Statements
• More than doubling the maximum damages payable to victims of discrimination.
• Boatshare Guidelines - exempt certain Boatshare vessels from the Commercial Vessels Act 1979, reducing red tape and operator costs while setting certain conditions to protect the rights of scheme participants. The impacts will be continued growth in the Boatshare industry, a minor reduction in operator and participant costs and reduced red tape in administering Boatshare schemes.
• Commercial mooring licence duration - extends the term of commercial mooring licences to match the associated commercial or club marina lease.
Impacts include reduced red tape and a minor improvement in business certainty.
• Courts and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2007 - strengthens the role and the rights of victims in the Government’s Young Offenders legislation, allows the Coroner to recommence an inquiry after the conclusion of a criminal prosecution to investigate any issues not previously covered, ensures that mediation proceedings in the Land and Environment Court are protected from defamation actions in a similar way to other courts.
• Crimes Amendment (Sexual Offences) Bill 2008 – increases penalties and removes anomalies in sentencing for child sex offences and adult sexual assault, including doubling the maximum sentence for possession of child pornography from 5 to 10 years and introducing a maximum life sentence for the aggravated offence of sex with a child under 10 years old, as well as creating new offences for voyeurism and indecent filming.
• Evidence Amendment Act 2007 - introduces the new Model Evidence Law provisions which create a national unified approach to evidence law, including making it easier for children and other vulnerable witnesses to give testimony in narrative form rather than question and answer, establishing protections for journalists and their sources as well as for other professional confidential communications, and making it easier for Indigenous Australians to give evidence about traditional Aboriginal law. The Commonwealth Evidence Act will commence on the same day.
• Evidence (Audio and Audio Visual Links) Amendment Act 2007 – Expands the use of Audio and Visual Link technology for preliminary court proceedings (including bail and interlocutory matters) so that accused prisoners will appear in court more often via CCTV from police stations or corrective services facilities and the discomfort, security risks and costs of transportation will be reduced.
• Administrative Decisions Tribunal Amendment Act 2008 - Increases the maximum amount payable under the Anti-Discrimination Act from $40,000 to $100,000 and streamlines the operation of the Administrative Decisions Tribunal.
• Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Amendment (Victim Impact Statements) Act
2008 - New laws that make it easier for victims of violent crimes to present victim impact statements in NSW courts, including allowing sexual assault victims and children to give statements via Closed Circuit Television.
• State Revenue and Other Legislation Amendment (Budget Measures) Bill 2008 - amendments to the Civil Procedure Regulation 2005 to increase hearing fees in the Supreme Court. The Government will increase the hearing fee for civil litigants, such as large commercial companies who use the NSW Supreme Court to resolve their disputes. The fee will increase from $255 to $345 per half day of court time and from $510 to $690 per full day of court time.
• Liquor Amendment (Miscellaneous) Regulation 2008 -It will be an offence from 1 January 2009 to sell a high alcohol based food essence (with an alcohol by volume level of greater than 35%) to a minor. These products can continue to be sold in unlicensed premises (such as supermarkets and grocery stores) post 1
January 2009 but cannot be sold to under 18s.
• Gaming Machines Amendment Regulation 2008 Matters commenced under the previous liquor laws prior to 1 July 2008 and were being dealt with by the Liquor Administration Board will become the responsibility of the Casino, Liquor and Gaming Control Authority on 1 January 2009. Those matters include liquor and gaming social impact assessments and disturbance complaints under the
liquor laws.
• Gaming Machines Amendment Regulation 2008 Gaming matters pending before the Liquor Administration Board will be transferred to the Casino, Liquor and Gaming Control Authority on 1 January 2009.
• Sydney Harbour Bridge Toll Order 2009 - This order will set the toll amount for the period 1 January - 31 December 2009. This year, the document consists of two separate toll periods: 1 January - 10 January and 11 January - 31 December 2009. The first period the toll remains unchanged at $3.00. The second period incorporates Time of Day Tolling, whereby the toll amount differs depending on the time of day.
• Adoption Amendment Act 2008 - This introduces open access to information for prospective adoptions, streamlines the application process for adoptions, and has reduced timeframes for establishing a pre-existing relationship for ‘known adoptions’ to two years. To commence 1 January 2009 except for open access to adoption information, which will be commenced later in the year after procedures and policies have been implemented.
• The Water Management Amendment Act 2008 - commences on 1 January 2009 - this Act improves the ability to take compliance action to ensure water resources are fairly shared between water users such as towns, agriculture, and mining and the environment. The maximum penalties for water theft have been increased up to $2.2 million or 2 years gaol to reflect the significance of the potential impact of water theft on other users. There are also improved investigatory powers and improved powers to require remediation of harm caused to the environment.
• The Rail Safety Act 2008 - implements National Model Rail Safety Legislation and builds on significant rail safety reforms the Government has introduced in New South Wales since 2002, in response to the Special Commissions of Inquiry into the Glenbrook and Waterfall rail incidents.
• Transport Administration Amendment (Rail and Ferry Transport Authorities) Bill 2008 – establishes Sydney Ferries and RailCorp as Statutory Authorities that are under direct control of the NSW Government.
An AVO is more than just a piece of paper
Issued: Tuesday 29 December 2008
A new booklet will assist women during their Apprehended Violence Order process.
The updated version of Just a Piece of Paper? Making your AVO work for you has been produced by the Southern Women's Group Inc in Bega and funded by the Law & Justice Foundation of NSW.
The original booklet provides support to victims after the AVO process, particularly after the initial period of support service contact has reduced.
The new, second edition will provide additional information for victims during the AVO application.
The result is a more comprehensive booklet that is an attractive and 'handy' resource for workers and victims.
Order forms are available online to purchase the $3.30 booklet.
Some of the areas covered in the booklet include police response, the importance of reporting breaches, personal record keeping, aiding and abetting, AVO's and children, AVO's and family law, varying an AVO and following up on police action.
The first edition was launched at the 2004 Reclaim the Night event in Bega, in conjunction with the Bega Valley Domestic and Sexual Violence Committee and Candelo Books.
Order forms and the online PDF version is available on the Southern Women's Group website: www.southernwomensgroup.org.au
For more information contact Gabrielle Powell by phone: 02 6492 1367, fax 02: 64921129, email: wrcbega@bigpond.com or post: The Coordinator, Women’s Resource Centre, PO Box 468, Bega, NSW 2550.
Santa to bring Xmas cheer to sick kids at Bankstown
Issued: Tuesday 16 December 2008
Dozens of sick children at Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital will receive some early Christmas cheer on Friday, when Santa Claus arrives in a red sports car loaded with presents.
“Santa usually travels by sleigh, but for such an urgent job, he was looking for something with a little more horsepower,” said Bankstown Sheriff’s Officer Alan Daizli.
“The jolly man in the red suit was thrilled when we volunteered to pick him up in a 1965 Mustang, but we understand Rudolph was less than impressed.”
Police will provide Santa with an official escort from Bankstown Police Station to the hospital to help ensure there are no delays.
Santa will make a bedside visit to each child in the hospital to deliver gifts donated by police, sheriff’s officers and local service providers.
“I thank everyone who has reached into their pockets during tough economic times. Your generosity will put smiles on the faces of many sick and seriously injured children,” Mr Daizli said.
This is the sixth year in a row that Bankstown sheriff’s officers and police have teamed up to bring some joy into the lives of children at the hospital.
“Many of us have children of our own, and we understand how much the young ones look forward to Christmas,” Mr Daizli said.
“We want to make sure that children in hospital don’t miss out on the magic of the festive season.”
Santa Claus will arrive at the main entrance of Bankstown-Lidcombe Hospital, Eldridge Rd, Bankstown on Friday, 19 December at 10 am. Presents will be delivered to children between 10am and noon.
Pioneers of Circle Sentencing honoured in Nowra
Issued: Tuesday 16 December 2008
A plaque will be unveiled at Nowra Courthouse today to honour the pioneers of the groundbreaking Circle Sentencing program for Aboriginal offenders.
“Nowra is the birthplace of Circle Sentencing in NSW and I congratulate the community Elders, magistrates, prosecutors and others who have contributed to the program over the past six years,” said Brendan Thomas, Assistant Director General of the Attorney General’s Department of NSW.
“This plaque symbolises your achievements in breaking down barriers between Indigenous communities and the justice system and in steering Aboriginal offenders onto the right path.”
Mr Thomas said the program forced Aboriginal offenders to face up to their crimes.
“There is nowhere to hide in the circle and the shame of having to discuss the impact of a crime with community Elders and, in some cases the victim, can have a lasting impact on offenders,” he said.
“While the sentence determined by the circle is often similar to what an offender would have received in a conventional court, the process is less formal and more culturally appropriate for Aboriginal people.”
More than 50 Aboriginal offenders, many with significant criminal histories, have faced Circle Sentencing in Nowra since the program began in 2002.
“Many of the offenders have credited Circe Sentencing with turning their lives around, while the majority of victims said they were satisfied justice had been done in their cases,” said Nowra Circle Sentencing Coordinator, Gail Wallace.
Reformed offenders, Corey Cowan and Libby Williams will attend the plaque unveiling ceremony.
“If it wasn’t for the Elders in Circle Sentencing, I would probably be dead by now,” said Ms Williams.
“Since the circle, I have beaten a drug addiction and have stopped offending.”
Ms Wallace said the program had earned the respect of the Aboriginal community.
“When Circle Sentencing started, we struggled to get Elders to volunteer because they tended to be wary of the justice system,” Ms Wallace said.
“The number of Elders involved has increased five-fold since 2002 and we now have 20 Elders participating, with representatives from all six Aboriginal communities in the Nowra area.”
Nowra’s Circle Sentencing program received a $10,000 award for excellence at the National Crime and Violence Prevention Awards in 2005. Circle Sentencing is now operating at Dubbo, Brewarinna, Lismore, Armidale, Kempsey, Bourke, Walgett and Mt Druitt.
The ceremony to unveil the Circle Sentencing plaque will be held at Nowra Courthouse on 16 December from 2pm-4pm. An Aboriginal art exhibition will be launched at the courthouse at the conclusion of the ceremony.
Consultation paper on jury directions
Issued: Friday 12 December 2008
Ensuring that jurors understand the sometimes lengthy instructions or directions that judges give is one of the challenges addressed in a consultation paper on jury directions released by the NSW Law Reform Commission (“LRC”) today.
Jury directions are the mainly oral instructions that judges give to juries on the evidence presented and the relevant law, to assist them in reaching their verdict.
The directions are often long, complex and framed in legal terminology. Their complexity can lead to inadvertent errors by trial judges and provide grounds for unnecessary appeals against conviction.
“Jury directions will fail in their purpose if they are not delivered in a form which a jury made up of members of the general community can understand and apply”, said Chairperson of the LRC, The Hon James Wood AO QC.
“The purpose of the review”, Mr Wood said, “is to identify problem areas in the way that jurors have traditionally been instructed, and to identify a format that is more relevant for the current generation of jurors. If so, we might be able to avoid the experience that so many judges have encountered of jurors’ eyes glazing over when they give directions.”
The consultation paper considers the instructions that judges currently give and poses the question whether they are necessary for a fair trial and, if so, whether they can be presented to jurors in a more effective way.
Consideration is also given to the ways in which judges’ oral directions can be supplemented by other materials, such as computer technology, written summaries, and flow charts setting out pathways to a verdict.
“The use of such material more closely approximates the way in which modern jurors are accustomed to absorbing, retaining and using information”, said Mr Wood.
The LRC is inviting submissions from the public on all aspects of jury directions, including the ways in which they are delivered.
Copies of the consultation paper can be obtained from the LRC’s website: http://www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lrc.
NEW SOUTH WALES LAW REFORM COMMISSION
Level 13, Swire House, 10 Spring Street, Sydney NSW 2000 • GPO Box 5199, Sydney NSW 2001 • DX 1227 Sydney
telephone +61 2 8061 9270 • facsimile +61 2 8061 9376 • email nsw_lrc@agd.nsw.gov.au
WWW.LAWLINK.NSW.GOV.AU/LRC
Three new crime mapping reports released
Issued: Monday 15 December 2008
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has released crime mapping reports on the following Local Government Areas:
- Campbelltown
- Pittwater
- Tamworth region
Download the new Local Government Area Crime Maps reports in pdf >>
Online game helps missing teens
Issued: Wednesday 3 December 2008
A new online game combines fast-paced animation, alternative music and youth-oriented slang to raise awareness about services available to help missing Australian teenagers.
“Around 20,000 young Australians go missing every year and the interactive Talking Works (www.talkingworks.com.au) website will be a valuable resource for troubled teenagers and their friends who want to reach out to them,” said Sarah Wayland, coordinator of the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit of the NSW Attorney General’s Department.
The Talking Works game involves a skateboarding schoolgirl who meets a police officer and learns that going missing is not a crime.
“Young people may not report a friend missing because they don’t want to dob on them, but this game shows that talking to police is the smartest thing they can do,” Ms Wayland said.
“Police are primarily concerned for the wellbeing of missing teenagers and will not force a young person to go home if it is unsafe.”
The game explains the main reasons young people go missing, which include abuse and neglect, depression, drugs and alcohol and bullying.
“Young people who run away from home can find themselves in a lonely and vulnerable position, particularly if they are living on the streets,” Ms Wayland said.
“If this game prompts one young person to seek assistance or counselling, then it will have been a worthwhile project.”
Year 10 students were consulted during the game’s development, to ensure its messages were delivered in a way that would appeal to its target audience of 14 to 17 year-olds.
“Talking Works gives young people advice on the types of SMS messages they can send to a missing friend to find out where they are or to make sure they are OK,” Ms Wayland said.
The interactive website was funded by the NSW Missing Persons Committee with support from the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit of the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and the Australian Federal Police.
It will be promoted via the youth social network MySpace and on the websites of the Federal Police and the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit.
Support services for young people include the Kids Help Line (www.kidshelp.com.au or 1800 551 800), Reach Out (www.reachout.com.au), Reconnect (1800 813 750) and 2010 (www.twenty10.org.au or 1800 652 010).
The Talking Works interactive website will be launched at 4pm today at the NSW Mental Health Association, Level 5, 80 William St, East Sydney.
AGD Disability Advisory Council member wins award
(04/11/08)
James Condren, a member of the Attorney General Department’s Disability Advisory Council, has won the 2008 Law and Justice Volunteer Award. The announcement was made at the Justice Awards dinner of the NSW Law and Justice Foundation at NSW Parliament House on 29 October 2008.
The award, for a person or group "who, in a voluntary capacity, demonstrates an outstanding commitment to improving access to justice", pays tribute to James’ work as an advocate for people with a disability who come into contact with the criminal justice system.
James, whose life has included many challenges, uses his own experience to help others understand the issues that a person with an intellectual disability might face in the criminal system. James efforts include speaking at public forums, lobbying government, working with the media and representing people with an intellectual disability on various Boards and committees including the NSW Council for Intellectual Disability, the Intellectual Disability Rights Service Criminal Justice Support Network Reference Group, the Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association (MDAA) and the Disability Council of NSW.
Survey finds 54% of Australians don’t have a will
Issued: Tuesday 21 October 2008
Marking Good Will Week 2008, NSW Attorney General John Hatzistergos revealed the results of a survey which found that 30% of people would write someone out of their will if that person did something to upset them.
He said the survey, which looked at people’s family structures and attitudes towards keeping a will, also found that 16% worry they may not inherit what they think is coming to them.
“Good Will Week is a reminder that we should all make out a will, and make sure we update our will when our personal situation changes,” said Mr Hatzistergos.
“If you want to make sure your estate is divided between your loved ones in the way you would like it to be, I urge people, no matter how young or old, to take this opportunity to make a will.”
Mr Hatzistergos said the survey, “Inheritance: Do You Think You’ll Get What You Deserve,” found that 54% of people aged over 18 do not have a will.
“Most troubling was that the survey found that 93% of young people, aged between 18 and 24, do not have a will.”
The survey, conducted on behalf of the NSW Public Trustee, the organisers of Good Will Week, asked 1,000 Australian’s about inheritance and their concept of the family. It found that:
- 53% of people have something in mind they would like to inherit
- Almost 70% of younger people (aged 18-24) have something in mind they would like to inherit
- Younger people are almost twice as likely to have a parent who has been in more than one marriage or long term de facto relationship than those who are over 54 years old
- Around one third of the population has a half or step-sibling
- 31% of adults consider a close friend as part of their extended family
- 54% of young people want to find out more about their family history while 16% of adults already know a lot about their family history
Mr Hatzistergos said Good Will Week ran until October 25 and that information about community events and genealogy workshops was available at www.goodwillweek.com.au or by calling 1300 142 434.
Toronto Aboriginal Justice Group seeks new members
Issued: Monday 20 October 2008
An Aboriginal group that develops grass roots solutions to crime issues in Toronto is seeking new members.
“For around three years, the Toronto-Westlakes Aboriginal Community Justice Group (ACJG) has been assisting victims of crime and striving to reduce the number of Aboriginal offenders,” said Toronto-Westlakes’ ACJG coordinator, Anita Barker.
“However, with some founding members no longer able to attend meetings, the group is looking to reinvigorate itself by attracting new faces.”
Ms Barker said the continued input of the local Indigenous community was vital to the group’s long-term success.
“Aboriginal people understand the problems facing our community and are best placed to develop solutions,” Ms Barker said.
“Reducing the number of Aboriginal people in custody is not something achieved overnight, but with the support of Aboriginal community leaders, the group will continue to make a difference.”
The group works in cooperation with the local court, police and other justice agencies to break down barriers between Indigenous people and the legal system.
Ms Barker said the group had achieved positive results by working with other organisations to help Aboriginal people gain their driver’s licence.
“In recent months, I have noticed a dramatic fall in the number of Aboriginal people coming before Toronto Local Court on charges of driving unlicenced, unregistered and uninsured,” Ms Barker said.
The group has also helped Aboriginal people obtain birth certificates and has helped establish an Indigenous Men’s Group, whose members discuss local issues and provide support to one another.
The Toronto-Westlakes Aboriginal Community Justice Group meets on the last Thursday of every month at either Toronto Library or Koompahtoo Local Aboriginal Land Council. Members must be Aboriginal and aged 16 and over.
The group’s next meeting will be held from 11am to 2pm, 30 October at Toronto Library. For further information about the group, visit Anita Barker at Toronto Courthouse or contact her on (02) 4935 8318.
Get involved in Good Will Week 2008
(10/10/08)
Good Will Week is a community education campaign that takes place from 19-25 October.
Special will making activities across NSW are being organised by Public Trustee NSW to encourage people to make sure they have an up-to-date and legally valid Will.
For more information browse to the Good Will Week website.
New BOCSAR report: Does circle sentencing reduce Aboriginal offending?
(16/07/08)
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has today released the report "Does circle sentencing reduce Aboriginal offending?"
The media release and full text of the report are available on the BOCSAR's website >>
Call for papers extended
(15/07/08)
The call for papers for the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research's (BOCSAR) 40th anniversary symposium has been extended by two weeks.
Contributions are invited from any Australian researcher currently conducting research into crime, criminal justice or any allied field. Researchers interested in presenting at the symposium should email the title of their paper, the name(s) of the presenters, a contact phone number and an abstract of no more than 200 words to BOCSAR no later than Friday 25 July 2008. The email address to which this material should be sent is bocsar_symposium@agd.nsw.gov.au.
The symposium is to be held on 18-19 February 2009 in Sydney. Note that the early bird registration fee of $450 is available until 31 October 2008.
Browse full details of the event >>
Blacktown Court welcomes Sudanese community to open day
Issued: Thursday 26 June 2008
The prospect of going to court can be daunting for anyone, but Sydney’s Sudanese community need not worry, as they are invited to an open day at Blacktown Local Court, Kildare Road, on Thursday, July 3, 2008, 10:45 am to 3:00 pm.
The event aims to inform the Sudanese community about the law and legal services in NSW in a friendly and welcoming way.
According to the figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Sudanese community is currently one of the fastest growing groups in Australia.
“Western Sydney has a large Sudanese community, particularly in the Blacktown area and we want to ensure that language barriers do not prevent people from accessing our court services,” said Garry Northcote, Registrar of Blacktown Courthouse.
The open day will include a range of legal information seminars, all of which will be delivered in Juba Arabic, Dinka and English.
“This is a great opportunity for the community to learn how the court works, how to get legal help and to find out about the services available to victims of crime.”
“People will also be able to learn about discrimination and their rights and the role of the Police,” added Mr Northcote.
Blacktown local and chairman of the Equatoria Community Welfare Association Inc. NSW, Faustino Aboka said, “the Sudanese community is in desperate need of legal information”.
“The NSW legal system is very different to the justice system in Sudan. It is important that the Sudanese community attend the open day and learn about their rights and obligations under the law.”
Other information available during the day includes topics such as road safety and fair-trading.
The Sudanese singing group ‘The Light of Christ’ will be making a special appearance at the event. To assist parents and families visiting, a child minding service will be provided, during the event, free of charge at the courthouse.
Blacktown Courthouse Open Day Details
Where: Blacktown Courthouse, 1 Kildare Road, Blacktown
When: Thursday, July 3, 2008 - 10:45am-3pm
Did the heroin shortage increase amphetamine use?
Issued: Monday 16 June 2008
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research today released the report Did the heroin shortage increase amphetamine use?
Media release >>
PDF version of the report >>
Call for papers for BOCSAR symposium
Issued: Wednesday 21 May
February 2009 marks the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR). To celebrate, BOCSAR is hosting an anniversary symposium on 18–19 February at the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney.
The theme of the symposium is the contribution that research can make to law and order policy and criminal justice administration. Some great speakers are already lined up.
A cocktail party for symposium delegates, past and present employees of BOCSAR and colleagues is also planned for the evening of Wednesday 18 February.
Full details and registration information can be found on the BOCSAR website.
Abstract submissions are also sought. If you would like to present a paper at the symposium please send an abstract to bocsar_symposium@agd.nsw.gov.au by 11 July 2008.
AGA/Goethe-Institut Fellowship 2008
Issued: Wednesday 21 May 2008
The AGA/Goethe-Institut Fellowship 2008 is a research/development opportunity for younger public servants.
The fellowship has been awarded annually since 1991 and is sponsored by the Australian-German Association and Goethe-Institut with the support of Lufthansa German Airlines.
Candidates should be Australian citizens under 35 years at 1 July 2008, have a good working knowledge of the German language, excellent tertiary qualifications and the prospect of a promising career in business, law, science, political studies or arts.
The fellowship includes:
- 3 months in Germany
- 8 weeks intensive language and cultural study with full accommodation
- 4 weeks research and
- return air fare plus travel allowance for Germany.
Applications must be lodged by 6 June 2008.
The application form and information sheet are available from the AGA website (www.aga.org.au/fellowship).
New reports from BOCSAR
Issued: Wednesday 21 May 2008
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research has today released two reports:
1. An Evaluation of the NSW Domestic Violence Intervention Court Model (DVICM) —
View media release >>
View pdf version of report >>
2. Community Supervision and Rehabilitation: Two studies of offenders on supervised bonds —
View media release >>
View pdf version of report >>
New research released through Indigenous Justice Clearinghouse
Issued: Tuesday 13 May 2008
The Indigenous Justice Clearinghouse has released two new research briefs which available for download.
The first, Sex offender treatment programs: effectiveness of prison and community based programs in Australia and New Zealand examines whether programs designed to treat sex offenders in Australia and New Zealand are effective in reducing sexual re-offending. It also discusses the treatment needs of Indigenous sex offenders.
The second brief, Bail support in Australia examines programs designed to assist a person to successfully complete their bail period. From a review of the Australian and international literature, principles of best practice are presented and current bail support programs for adults and juveniles in Australia are outlined.
Research briefs written for the Indigenous Justice Clearinghouse are designed to progress Indigenous evidence-based policy-making. The website is funded by the National Justice CEOs and is coordinated by the NSW Attorney General's Department and the Australian Institute of Criminology.
For more information, contact Sarah Macgregor, Research Assistant, National Justice CEOs Group, NSW Attorney General’s Department, telephone 02 8061 9313 or email sarah_macgregor@agd.nsw.gov.au.
Competition reveals pain of bullying
Issued: Thursday 1 May 2008
The Anti-Discrimination Board’s writing competition for schoolchildren has highlighted the profound affect that bullying, harassment and discrimination can have on children.
Entitled “Say NO to discrimination now”, the competition was held as part of Law Week 2008. Over 600 entries were received in a variety of genres including poems, stories, fables, rap songs, dialogues and role-plays.
“Many entries were written from a very personal perspective and reveal the immense pain and the loss of hope and self-esteem that can result from bullying, particularly bullying related to race and homosexuality,” said Board President Stepan Kerkyasharian AM.
“However, it was encouraging to see that the children also showed awareness about how to deal with bullying, including standing up to bullies, seeking out support from people at home and school, and most challengingly, trying to ‘be nice’ to the bully and befriend them.”
The winner in the Kindergarten to year 2 category was four-year-old Jessica Eddy from Binda, whose succinct but striking entry was entitled “Bullies have mean mouths”.
Years 3–6 winner was Ahmad El Ammar from Peakhurst, who wrote a powerful and well-constructed poem entitled “Sticks and Stones”, about his experience of bullying and the solutions to it.
The winner from years 7–9 was Dominic Moore from Deniliquin, whose poem entitled “Ying and Yang?” was about the racism that is still directed at black people; and the Years10–12 winner was Bilal Wazirzada from Lisarow, with an entry expressing his dream for a bullying-free future entitled “I hope”.
The winners will receive book vouchers for themselves and their schools, to be presented by NSW Attorney General John Hatzistergos and Mr Kerkyasharian at a ceremony at NSW Parliament House at 10am on Friday 2 May. Runners up in each category will also receive certificates.
The presentation will also feature a performance by students from TAP, the Talent Advancement Program of Bankstown City Council and the NSW Department of Education and Training.
MEDIA ENQUIRIES.
Urgent notice to District Court Clients
Issued: Wednesday 30 April 2008
It has come to the attention of the District Court that an unknown source is sending out automated telephone messages purportedly on behalf of the District Court. These messages should be ignored as they have not been authorised by the District Court.
Affected clients have advised that the message often states that their court matter has been cancelled or postponed and then requests the client to press 9* on their phone for further information. When 9* is pressed it transfers to an external call centre asking for personal details.
No personal details should be given and clients are asked to hang up immediately.
Clients can contact the District Court to confirm the listing date of their court matter if there is a concern.
Contact us >>
BOCSAR releases new reports
Issued: Tuesday 15 April 2008
The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) today released the following reports:
- NSW Recorded Crime Statistics 2007, and
- The problem of steal from motor vehicle in New South Wales.
The full text of these reports, the Bureau Briefs: An update of long-term trends in property and violent crime in New South Wales: 1990-2007, and Did the prevalence of assault in NSW increase between 2006 and 2007? along with summaries and graphs are available from BOCSAR's website.
Capacity Toolkit launched
Issued: Friday 4 April 2008
A new Capacity Toolkit was launched Monday 31 March by our Attorney General, the Hon. John Hatzistergos, MLC.
The Toolkit is a comprehensive information resource including:
- information about decision-making capacity
- principles on which the concept of capacity is assessed
- guidance on when a capacity assessment may be needed, and
- information about the different legal tests of capacity , such as making a contract, a will, managing financial matters or making health decisions.
It will be a valuable point of reference for a broad audience, including family, friends, carers and community organisations involved with a person whose decision-making is in question. Also, others who undertake capacity assessments as part of their professional service, such as doctors, community workers, lawyers and finance staff.
Assessing a person’s capacity can be a difficult task and an incorrect decision could have serious consequences.
Being unfairly denied the right to make important life decisions could have a devastating impact on a person’s self esteem, dignity and sense of freedom. However, a person lacking the capacity to make decisions could place themselves in danger and be subject to exploitation if they are not identified and given the appropriate assistance.
Dementia is one of many illnesses and disabilities that can restrict a person’s capacity to make decisions. Around 1000 Australians are diagnosed with dementia each week. By 2050, it is estimated that almost three per cent of the nation’s population will be affected by dementia.
Until now, there have been few local resources to help in capacity assessment. This Toolkit will make the process easier, and sets out simple steps to follow in determining capacity.
The Capacity Toolkit was developed by the Diversity Services branch of the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and is the result of extensive community consultation with a range of stakeholders.
For more information, view the Diversity Services website, or contact Diversity Services, telephone: 02 8688 7507 or email diversity.services@agd.nsw.gov.au.
View photo gallery from the launch >>
First Aboriginal Bail Justice for Kempsey
Issued: Wednesday 26 March 2008
Talia Condie has made history by becoming the first Aboriginal Bail Justice in Kempsey.
Ms Condie can now be called upon to determine bail matters when a magistrate is unavailable at Kempsey and Macksville courthouses.
“I congratulate Ms Condie on her appointment. She is well respected in the courts and will be an excellent role model in the Aboriginal community,” said Kempsey Courthouse registrar Greg Hall.
Ms Condie has been working in courts in Sydney and on the North Coast for almost a decade.
“Ms Condie has worked hard to break down barriers between Aboriginal people and the justice system. She has also been involved in community-based programs to reduce domestic violence,” said Mr Hall.
During her time as an Aboriginal Client Service Specialist (ACSS), Ms Condie has had a close association with bail courts.
“Part of my ACSS role has been to ensure that Aboriginal defendants understand the outcomes of bail hearings and are aware of any conditions imposed upon them,” said Ms Condie.
Ms Condie said the increasing number of Aboriginal staff in NSW courts could enhance cooperation between Indigenous communities and the justice system.
"We want to live in a harmonious society just as much as any other Australians. The laws of the courts, while not traditional Aboriginal laws, apply to our people and we must abide by them. Increasing the presence of Aboriginal staff in our courts will help to build respect for the justice system within the Indigenous community," said Ms Condie.
Eleven Aboriginal Client Service Specialists (ACSS) completed a Bail Justice training program in NSW last year. Ms Condie is the first of the group to preside over a bail court.
The coordinator of the ACSS program Stan Jarrett said enabling suitably qualified Aboriginal people to determine bail could enhance the effectiveness of the justice system.
“Aboriginal defendants are over-represented in our courts and it is important that those entitled to bail are given culturally appropriate conditions,” said Mr Jarrett
“Aboriginal Bail Justices will apply the law in the same way as any other authorised justice of the court, but their cultural knowledge will help inform the bail conditions they set for Indigenous defendants,” said Mr Jarrett.
Mock drink driving arrest delivers sobering message to Parkes students
Released: 26 March 2008
Parkes and district high school students will discover the consequences of being caught drink driving when they take part in a mock arrest and trial during Law Week.
The event, on Tuesday 1 April, will follow the fortunes of a young driver who fails a random breath test outside Parkes police station.
“Students attending will be taken into the police station and officers will demonstrate how a person is arrested and charged,” said Bev Walker, Registrar of Parkes Courthouse.
“The students will then take part in a mock trial, playing the roles of various court participants with guidance from police officers, solicitors, probation officers and court officers.
“The event will be a great opportunity for students to get a behind the scenes look at how the justice system works,” said Ms Walker.
Road safety and injury prevention officers from the RTA and Parkes Shire Council will also speak to the students about the dangers of drink driving.
“A person caught drink driving may feel hard done by, but they should count themselves lucky that they were pulled over before they caused an accident,” said Ms Walker.
Ms Walker said the theme of the mock trial was timely.
“Sadly, the Parkes community has suffered greatly in the past few years with several deaths of local high school students in motor vehicle accidents, some of which involved alcohol,” said Ms Walker.
“We hope this Law Week event will have a lasting impact on the students and possibly save lives.”
Event Details
When: Tuesday, 1 April 2008 from 10am
Where: Parkes Courthouse and Police Station
Any further enquiries may be directed to Bev Walker, Registrar of Parkes Courthouse, telephone: 02 6862 1944.
National Law Week aims to promote community understanding of the law and its important role in society. The theme of Law Week 2008 is ‘Know the score, check out the law’.
For more information about events visit our Law Week website.
Bureau's 40th anniversary symposium
Issued: 20 March 2008
On 18 February 2009 it will be 40 years since the NSW State Cabinet established the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR). To celebrate the event, the Director and staff of BOCSAR are organising a 40th anniversary two-day symposium at the Powerhouse Museum located at Darling Harbour, Sydney, 18–19 February 2009.
The symposium will include accomplished speakers, including Professors Tony Vinson, Arie Freiberg, Peter Grabosky, Larrissa Behrendt and Paul Mazerolle and others. All are welcome to attend—mark the dates in your diary!
A call for papers will be issued shortly. For more information, contact Tiziana Trovato or Maria Pavlou, telephone (02) 9231 9190.
Further updates will appear on the BOCSAR website.
Campbelltown Court to showcase local Aboriginal art during Law Week
Issued: 19 March 2008
Some of the finest works by Macarthur Aboriginal artists will be on display at Campbelltown Courthouse, as part of Law Week celebrations.
The exhibition will feature contemporary decorative designs as well as traditional Aboriginal weavings.
“This collection will brighten up the courthouse and help raise the profile of local artists. The exhibition is symbolic of the increasingly cooperative relationship between the courts and the local Aboriginal community,” said Gary Stewart, Aboriginal Client Services Specialist at Campbelltown Courthouse.
Local artists who have contributed to the exhibition include Randall Green, Jan Shipley and Pauline Matthews. Mr Stewart said the exhibition would also feature works by detainees at Reiby Juvenile Justice Centre.
“It is encouraging to see young Aboriginal people in custody utilising their talents and expressing themselves in a positive way,” Mr Stewart said.
The exhibition will be launched on Monday, 31 March 2008, with the ceremony to be attended by community Elders and representatives from local Aboriginal Land Councils, the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and court agencies. A panel will judge the artworks at the launch, with prizes and encouragement certificates to be awarded.
Campbelltown Courthouse Deputy Registrar Lisa Hogan said the exhibition would become an annual Law Week event.
“This is the second consecutive year we have displayed Aboriginal art during Law Week and with the community’s support we hope to stage similar events in the future,” said Ms Hogan.
The exhibition will be held from 31 March - 4 April. Selected artworks will be for sale and all proceeds will go directly to the artist.
Events will be held nationwide during Law Week to promote community understanding of the law and its important role in society.
Details:
What: Aboriginal art exhibition launch
Where: Campbelltown Courthouse, corner of Railway Parade and Hurley St
When: 6-8pm, 31 March 2008
Belmont Mock Trials to promote pedestrian safety
Issued: 19 March 2008
Mock trials will be held at Belmont Courthouse during Law Week to teach children about the justice system and the importance of obeying road rules.
The trials will focus on a scenario in which a man is charged with negligent driving after hitting an 11-year-old skateboarder at a pedestrian crossing.
Hundreds of Year Six students from the Lake Macquarie area will attend the mock trials, to be held on April 1 and 2, 2008.
“The mock trials will be very ‘hands on’ and the children will get a chance to play the roles of key court participants,” said Belmont Courthouse Deputy Registrar Catherine Piper.
“The students will be mentored by a retired magistrate, solicitors and police officers to ensure they understand the process.”
At the conclusion of the trial, the children will be asked to deliver their verdict.
“The case will not be clear cut. The court will hear evidence that the skateboarder had been listening to his Ipod and hadn’t looked both ways before crossing the road. I expect that the defendant will claim the glare of the sun had affected his vision at the time of the incident,” Mrs Piper said.
Mrs Piper said the sessions would be entertaining, but would carry serious underlying messages.
“The mock trials are aimed at educating children about pedestrian safety and driver responsibility in a non-threatening environment,” said Mrs Piper.
Officers from the NSW Police Rescue Squad will also be on hand to explain how they respond to collisions and other major accidents.
“The officers will bring their rescue truck and demonstrate how they use the equipment to save lives,” said Mrs Piper.
Law Week is an annual event which aims to promote community understanding of the law and its important role in society. The theme of Law Week 2008 is ‘Know the score, check out the law’.
Details of the mock trials
When: 9:30am to 2:30 pm, April 1-2 2008
Where: Belmont Courthouse, 530 Pacific Highway, Belmont
Parramatta Justice Precinct comes alive during Law Week
Issued: 18 March 2008
The new $330 million Parramatta Justice Precinct will host its first community open day to mark the 25th anniversary of Law Week on Tuesday 1 April.
The open day aims to inform the community about the law and the services provided by the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and Legal Aid NSW.
Free events on the day include a Will making seminar by the Public Trustee, performances by the NSW Police Band and a mock trial at the Parramatta Local Court for high school and university students.
“At the open day, the community will be able to find out how our Department’s services can assist them, as well as highlighting our programs aimed at reducing crime,” said Michael Talbot, Assistant Director General of the Attorney General’s Department of NSW.
The mock trial will provide students with a first-hand account of the justice system.
“The mock trial will be based on a scenario in which a young person is accused of crashing a stolen car,” Mr Talbot said.
”The exercise will raise awareness about road safety and give students a greater insight into how the justice system works,” he said.
The relocation of the Department’s headquarters to Parramatta has brought a range of valuable services to the doorstep of Western Sydney residents.
Agencies hosting information stalls at the open day will include:
- LawAccess NSW – a free telephone service that provides legal help
- Registry of Births, Deaths & Marriages - conducts marriage ceremonies, provides birth and
death certificates, records name changes and assists with family history research
- Anti-Discrimination Board - promotes equal opportunity principles and investigates allegations of
discrimination
- Office of the Protective Commissioner and Office of the Public Guardian - promotes the rights of people
with disabilities and manages the finances of people who do not have the capacity to look after their own affairs
- Victims Services - provides counselling and compensation to victims of crime
- Drug Court - a specialist court dealing with non-violent offenders dependant on drugs
- Norimbah Unit - supports and nurtures the career development of Aboriginal staff in the Attorney General's Department of NSW.
National Law Week is an annual event that aims to promote community understanding of the legal system and to improve the public’s access to legal services.
National Law Week
Date: Monday 31 March to Friday 5 April 2008
Community Open Day details:
Date and time: Tuesday 1 April 2008, 10.00 am – 3.00 pm
Venue: Heritage Forecourt, Parramatta Justice Precinct, 160 Marsden Street
Mock Trial details
Date and time: Tuesday 1 April 2008, 11.00 am
Venue: Parramatta Local Court, Cnr George & Marsden Streets, Parramatta
For more information about events visit: www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/lawweek
Cupid’s arrow hits Parramatta Registry on Valentine’s Day!
Released: 7 February 2008
Civil marriage ceremonies are becoming more popular every year. Figures from the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages show that since 1997, civil ceremonies have increased from 44% to 58% of all marriages.
“Registry marriages are increasingly popular among couples. This is because we offer an elegant and inexpensive way to celebrate this important event,” said Greg Curry, Registrar, NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages.
This year the Registry will be conducting its first Valentine’s Day marriage ceremonies at the Justice Precinct Offices at Parramatta. The custom-built marriage room can accommodate up to 24 guests and boasts an adjoining garden.
“We are especially excited about having our first Valentine’s Day in our new office in Parramatta. Couples can choose to have an indoor or garden ceremony”, added Mr Curry.
The NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages is the largest single provider of civil marriages in NSW. This Valentine’s Day 29 couples have chosen Registry offices for their special day.
In Parramatta, the Registry conducts marriages Monday to Saturday and most Sundays, starting from $298.00.
To find out more about getting married at the Parramatta Registry, call 1300 655 236 or visit the Births, Deaths & Marriages website.
Contact: Alana Sheil, telephone 02 9035 6558.
Understanding the significance of sentencing in international criminal justice
Released: 5 February 2008
The Institute of Criminology at the University of Sydney is planning to host a seminar that will consider the role of sentencing in achieving harmony for societies in conflict.
The Understanding the Significance of Sentencing in International Criminal Justice seminar is scheduled for Tuesday 26 February, from 5.30 – 6.30 pm. It will be held in the Minter Ellison Conference Room on Level 13 of the Sydney University Law School, located at 173-175 Phillip Street, Sydney.
The keynote speaker is Ralph Henham, Professor of Criminal Justice with the Nottingham Law School of Nottingham Trent University, England.
This seminar is free, but pre-registration is required. Contact Rachel Miller, telephone 9351 0239 or email R.Miller@usyd.edu.au.
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