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NSW Abolishes 'Good Character' Evidence in Sentencing

2/1/2026

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Story summary
  • The New South Wales government will abolish the use of 'good character' evidence in sentencing.
  • The reform follows a review by the NSW Sentencing Council, which found that such references re-traumatize survivors.
  • Attorney-General Michael Daley emphasized that offenders should not rely on reputations to mitigate their crimes.
  • Judges can still consider rehabilitation prospects and prior convictions.
  • Advocates hope the reform will influence similar changes in other Australian states.