About sentencing

Sentencing is the process of determining and applying the appropriate penalty for an offender’s actions.

The Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld) sets out the framework for sentencing, which is jointly shared across three bodies:

  • Parliament makes the laws and sets the parameters of the penalties imposed by the courts.
  • Courts interpret and apply the laws made by the Parliament and impose sentences upon offenders.
  • Executive arms of government, such as the public service, are responsible for implementing sentences.

Queensland Sentencing Guide 2023

This information is not intended to provide legal advice and has been prepared for the purposes of providing information only. While all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this information, no liability is assumed for any errors or omissions.