Page 2872 - Week 09 - Tuesday, 11 October 2022

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“I think we should always strive to improve outcomes for the community (which should have a rehabilitation focus and may very well include community correction orders, good behaviour orders etc) but the community should feel confidence in these decisions—particularly around judgments for serious criminal offences,” Dr Paterson wrote on social media.

Members, it is very disappointing that Dr Paterson chose to say one thing publicly, a few days ago, and has now come into this place to say something else. I do not know what conversations have gone on behind closed doors, but I express my disappointment.

I will turn to the amendment moved by Mr Rattenbury. It basically removes the substance of my motion, which is to call for an independent review into sentencing and bail. The amendment completely negates the motion. Look at the amendment:

(a) criminal sentencing, and bail decisions are an important function of the ACT’s independent judiciary and are open to the public for review and scrutiny;

Well, that is true. It continues:

(b) members of the community, the police union, and others have expressed concern about recent sentencing and bail outcomes …

Yes, and they have called for an independent review by the judiciary on this. That is true. It continues:

Yes, that is true. It continues:

(d) the ACT Government is committed to evidence-based criminal justice and road safety policies;

That is debatable, but I am going to let that one go through to the keeper. It continues:

(e) the Government is undertaking a range of work …

Yes, they are. I acknowledge that they are undertaking a range of work. It continues:

(f) in addition to the above, the Standing Committee on Justice and Community Safety is currently conducting an inquiry …

Yes, it is, and I welcome that. I do have concern with No (2). It says:

(2) calls on the Government to continue to engage with the community and stakeholders on areas of concern …

Today, one of the reasons that the parents were so upset was the Chief Minister’s refusal even to acknowledge their very presence. He quite conspicuously spoke with his back to them. Yes, comments have to be made through the Speaker, but to behave in the way he did, to refuse to acknowledge their presence after the petitions had been

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