Page 4082 - Week 11 - Tuesday, 23 October 2018
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over time to ensure that penalties keep pace with inflation and remain an effective tool for us to deter crime. Appropriate penalties are a central element of the effective justice system. Tackling crime and improving community safety are a top priority for this government.
The increase in the value of a penalty unit from $150 to $160 for an individual, and $750 to $810 for a corporation, will ensure that financial penalties remain an effective punishment and deterrent to the commission of ACT offences. I am advised that the last increase to the value of penalty units was made in August 2014. In accordance with section 133 of the Legislation Act, penalty unit amounts are to be reviewed at least once every four years. The increase will only apply to offences committed after the amendments come into force. The increase ensures that the relative weight of penalties is maintained, in line with the cost of living, and continues to have a deterrent effect.
In conclusion, this bill contains a range of procedural and efficiency reforms proposed by the judiciary and other justice stakeholders to improve the way the ACT’s justice system operates. It is a demonstration of how this government is committed to responding to issues raised by stakeholders. These amendments highlight, yet again, the outstanding commitment this government has to improving our justice system and access to justice for our ACT community. I encourage everybody to support the important changes in this bill.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
Bill agreed to in principle.
Leave granted to dispense with the detail stage.
Bill agreed to.
Sitting suspended from 12.11 to 2.30 pm.
Ministerial arrangements
MR BARR: Minister Ramsay is away today, as I think members are aware. Minister Gentleman will assist with questions in Mr Ramsay’s portfolios.
Questions without notice
ACT Health—workplace culture
MR COE: My question is for the minister for health. Minister, you were asked several questions about the legal protections and powers of your proposed review into ACT Health during the last sitting. Minister, you did not answer any of them. Minister, how can anyone in the ACT have any faith in your proposed inquiry when you cannot—or will not—answer simple questions about the features or processes of this inquiry?
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