A sentencing judge must separately consider whether a custodial sentence will weigh more heavily on a mentally ill offender than on a person in normal health, and this consideration is distinct from the question of whether mental illness reduces moral culpability or moderates the need for deterrence. Failure to address this distinct question in reasons constitutes appealable error. The six principles from R v Verdins [2007] VSCA 102 are endorsed as applicable in NSW.
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