A direction that the prosecution must prove the accused knew or was likely to know that what was imported was narcotic goods is a correct statement of the mental element for importation under s 233B(1)(b) of the Customs Act 1901 (Cth). Cooperation with police that yields no information of value and involves no full and frank disclosure may properly be assessed as 'slight' for sentencing purposes. Where a commercial quantity of a deleterious drug is imported for distribution, the seriousness of the offence may overwhelm the mitigatory effect of personal circumstances including family hardship.
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