There is no statutory constraint nor judicial authority requiring a sentencing judge to give separate reasons when setting a non-parole period greater than 50 per cent of the head sentence for Commonwealth offenders; there is no 'normal' or prima facie standard of 50 per cent. The weight and purity of a drug may be the primary sentencing factor in a particular case, provided all other relevant considerations are taken into account, notwithstanding the Wong (HC) prohibition on guidelines treating weight as always the chief factor. A sentencing judge who expressly adverts to hardship to an offender's family but gives it little weight in light of the seriousness of the offence does not fail to comply with s 16A(2)(p) of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth).
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