The Sentencing Advisory Council has just published a new report which shows that the average sentence for sexual offences significantly varies from state to state.

In Victoria the average sentence for sexual offences is seven years.

In New South Wales the average sentence for sexual offences is nine years.

In Tasmania the average sentence for sexual offences is four and a half years.

Vanessa Goodwin, Liberal Spokeswoman, has repeated calls for mandatory minimum sentences for child sex offenders.

The Law Reform Institute and the Sentencing Advisory Council are both opposed to mandatory sentencing.

If you have been the victim of a sexual assault or sexual abuse contact Victims of Crime Compensation & Counselling Services for immediate assistance on 1800 000 055 or make an enquiry now at www.victimsofcrime.com.au or email: support@victimsofcrime.com.au

About the author