The approach to imposing a single sentence for multiple offences outlined in R v Major is guidance, not a rigid formula; failure to follow it is not itself an error of law. In straightforward cases or where the totality principle will obviously apply, sentencing judges may proceed directly to the single sentence. Where an offender has strong rehabilitation prospects and powerful mitigating circumstances, the non-parole period should reflect those factors by being a lower proportion of the head sentence than usual.
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