A sentencing judge must not treat a discount for assistance to authorities (assessed under s 23 at the first stage of setting the overall sentence) as a reason to decline finding special circumstances under s 44(2) when setting the non-parole period. The two inquiries are distinct stages of the sentencing process and the discount should not encumber the special circumstances assessment. Accumulation of sentences remains a relevant factor for special circumstances unaffected by any discount for assistance.
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