Return to normal view

Law

Sentencing of adult offenders in Victoria is governed by the Sentencing Act 1991.

The Sentencing Act 1991 aims to:

• consolidate sentencing laws
• promote consistency in sentencing
• encourage fair procedures for imposing sentences
• prevent crime and promote respect for the law
• set out sentencing principles
• ensure victims receive adequate compensation and restitution.

The law relating to the sentencing of young people has changed.  The Children and Young Persons Act 1989 (Vic) was repealed on the 23 April 2007.

The laws relating to the sentencing of young people are now contained in the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005.  The main purposes of this Act are:

• to provide for community services to support children and families
• to provide for the protection of children
• to make provision in relation to children who have been charged with, or who have been found guilty of, offences
• to continue The Children’s Court of Victoria as a specialist court dealing with matters relating to children.