Tasmania Moves to Ban “Good Character” References for Serious Criminals ⚖️
Tasmania is preparing a major overhaul of sentencing laws that could reshape how courts treat serious offenders.
The state government plans to ban “good character” references for serious crimes, stopping convicted offenders from using letters or testimony about their reputation to potentially reduce their sentence.
Attorney General Guy Barnett said victims should not be forced to sit in court and hear offenders described as “good people” after causing harm.
The rule already exists for sexual offences, but the government now wants to expand it to cover all serious criminal cases.
Supporters say the change will modernize sentencing and protect victims from further trauma during court proceedings.
Critics warn it could raise questions about fairness and judicial discretion.
Either way, Tasmania is joining a growing national conversation about how courts balance accountability, rehabilitation, and victims’ rights in serious crime cases.
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