New Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Panel members welcomed

Media statement

The Queensland Sentencing Advisory Council is today welcoming three new members to its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Advisory Panel - Christopher Emzin, Thelma Schwartz and Kevin Williams.

The Panel, established to give a stronger voice to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples about sentencing, advises the Council on how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are affected by current sentencing practices, and offers insight into how sentencing could change to improve outcomes.

Council Deputy Chair Professor Elena Marchetti said:

“We are delighted to have three new, independent voices join our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Panel.

“The appointment of Christopher Emzin, Thelma Schwartz and Kevin Williams brings more expertise to an already-strong Panel.

“The Council will value the Panel’s expert advice greatly as it works to understand and address the disproportionately high rate of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Queensland’s criminal justice system.”

The new members join four existing members: Council member and Panel Chair Boneta-Marie Mabo, Laurie Bateman, Stephen Tillett and Graham White.

The new-look Panel held its first meeting today and will meet bi-monthly.

Back (left to right): Kevin Williams, Stephen Tillett, Laurie Bateman, Christopher Emzin, Graham White
Front (left to right): Thelma Schwartz, Boneta-Marie Mabo