Victoria bans character references in violent crime sentencing

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Victoria will ban the use of “good character” references in sentencing for serious violent crimes, becoming the second Australian state to adopt the reform after New South Wales.

The Victoria government says new laws will be introduced mid-year to stop offenders using personal testimonials to seek lighter sentences. The change follows concerns that such references retraumatise victims.

Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said victims should not have to hear praise of the person who harmed them during court proceedings, calling the practice damaging and inappropriate.

Premier Jacinta Allan said violent crimes cannot be excused by claims of good character, adding the justice system must prioritise victims over protecting offenders’ reputations.

Character references are letters from friends, family or colleagues describing a defendant’s behaviour or community role. While already limited in some cases, the new laws will remove their use entirely for violent offences.

More updates to come on AusNewsLanka.