2016-03-22
MS PENNICUIK — to ask the Minister for Training and Skills (for the Attorney-General): Circle sentencing has proven to be successful in reducing recidivism amongst aboriginal people. However, concerns have been raised that a non-guilty accused may plead guilty in order to have access to the Murri Court process. Given both the success of circle sentencing and the concerns raised to justify making it more widely available —
(1) will the Government extend the availability of circle sentencing in the criminal justice system; and
(2) is the Government considering allowing an aboriginal accused to have access to circle sentencing if he or she is pleading not guilty.
Answer on 7 June 2016:
I am advised that:
The Murri Court is a Queensland Magistrates' Court that deals with the sentencing of Aboriginal offenders in Queensland. Circle sentencing is an alternative sentencing court for adult Aboriginal offenders in New South Wales.
In Victoria, the Koori Court was established in 2002. The Koori Court aims to reduce offending behaviour and reduce the number of Koori people being sentenced to a period of detention. The Koori Court operates in the Children's, Magistrates' and County Court jurisdictions for defendants who plead guilty and have shown an intention to take responsibility for their actions.
The Koori Court process is often referred to as a sentencing conversation. The judicial officer sits across the table from the accused or young person, and has an Elder or Respected Person on either side of them.
On 31 March 2016 I launched the Geelong Koori Court, which will serve the Bannon South-West region. Options to expand the current Koori Court program to additional venues across the State will continue to be explored.