Today I will introduce a Bill into parliament for minimum mandatory sentences of up to 4 years to apply to anyone who commits a serious sexual offence against a child.
The Hodgman Liberal Government is sending a strong message that there will be zero tolerance for heinous crimes committed against children.
Sexual offences against children are particularly heinous. It is imperative that the sentences imposed by the courts in relation to this type of offence are commensurate with the gravity of the crime committed and reflect the strong condemnation felt by the Tasmanian community.
The Bill seeks to amend the Sentencing Act 1997 and introduce minimum terms of imprisonment in line with the Sentencing Advisory Council’s recommendations in relation to adult offenders.
This includes:
• 4 years’ imprisonment for the crime of rape where a victim is under 17 years.
• 4 years’ imprisonment for maintaining a sexual relationship with a young person where there are aggravating circumstances.
• 3 years’ imprisonment for the crime of maintaining a sexual relationship with a young person where there are aggravating circumstances.
• 2 years’ imprisonment for the crime of sexual intercourse with a young person where there are aggravating circumstances.
Minimum mandatory sentencing for serious sexual offences against children is in addition to other measures we are progressing such as mandatory treatment for sex offenders, expanding the definition of rape to bring it more in line with community standards and removing the limitations period for victims of child sexual abuse to seek damages.
Children are the most vulnerable in our society, and we will do everything we can to protect them against sexual predators.
This Government has long held the position that increased sentences are needed for serious sexual offences against children. It is a commitment we made at the last election and we are delivering on it.
Matthew Groom, Acting Attorney-General
