Purposes of sanctions

Deterrence

To discourage the offender from reoffending and to discourage others who might consider offending.

Rehabilitation

To correct anti-social behaviours and replace them with more desirable behaviours.

Denunciation

To demonstrate society’s disapproval of the offence.

Punishment

To give the offender a negative experience, as a result of their negative behaviour.

Protection

To limit the likelihood that the offender will be able to harm other members of the community.

Dismissal without conviction

Applies when the judge feels there is insufficient evidence to support a conviction.

Discharge with conviction

Applies when there is guilt but it is felt that a penalty is not warranted.

Adjourned undertaking

Applies where there is an opinion that a ‘second chance’ is warranted, with supervision.

Fines

Expressed in penalty units, used as a punishment and deterrent, but may have a disproportionate impact depending on the individual.

Community Corrections Orders (CCOs)

Non-custodial but supervised in the community, focusing on rehabilitation and can be combined with a term of imprisonment.

Drug Treatment Order

Part of the orders of drug court focusing primarily on rehabilitation, and may include drug treatment and drug screens.

Youth residential centre order

For individuals under 15 focusing on punishment, deterrence, protection, and rehabilitation.

Court Secure Treatment Order

An order that the person is detained in a treatment facility, focusing on rehabilitation and protection.

Imprisonment

A penalty level from 1 to 9, primarily serves to punish, protect society, and may offer hope of rehabilitation.

Cumulative sentences

Where the sentences for multiple offences are added together, leading to a longer total sentence.

Aggregate sentences

A single sentence for multiple offences, meaning the sentence isn’t apportioned among them.

Indefinite sentences

Very uncommon sentences imposed for community protection.

Non-parole period

A period during a prison sentence where the offender is not eligible for parole.