Review of serious road crime
The Attorney General has asked us to review aspects of the law relating to serious road crime.
Under the terms of reference, we have been asked to consider:
whether the existing serious road crime offences, and the law on accessorial liability, are fit for purpose
whether the maximum sentences for serious road crimes are appropriate
the sentencing principles relevant to serious road crimes
the experience and rights of victims of serious road crimes and their families in the criminal justice system, and
any other matters considered relevant.
Please
see our background note for a summary of existing serious road crime offences that could be relevant to our review and their maximum sentences. Preliminary submissions
The due date for preliminary submissions was 17 February 2023. Thank you to everyone who made a submission.
Content warning
This review deals with content that some people may find distressing, including discussion of road trauma.
If you need support, there are some services you can contact free of charge. These include:
Beyond Blue
Call support services on 1300 22 4636
Beyond Blue is an independent, not-for-profit organisation working to reduce the impact of anxiety, depression and suicide in Australia. Learn more about mental illness and available treatments at beyondblue.org.au.
Lifeline
Call the 24-hour crisis line on 13 11 14
Talk to a support person online at: Lifeline Crisis Chat
Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing emotional distress with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services. Learn more at Lifeline's Website.
Road Trauma Support Group NSW – support service
Call support services on 1800 808 384
The Road Trauma Support Group's support team assists victims and survivors in a variety of ways, including by providing access to specialist counsellors. For more information, visit the Road Trauma Support Group's support services webpage.
Information on the review
Background note on serious road crime offences (released 28 November 2022)
Terms of reference (received 10 November 2022)