When sentencing for multiple offences under the same section causing vastly different levels of damage, the sentencing judge must differentiate between the sentences to reflect the extent of damage caused; treating all such offences as meriting the same sentence is an error. Offences causing damage of $4.35M and $18M respectively under s 195B of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) fall within the worst case category warranting the maximum penalty as a starting point. Disparity with co-offenders' sentences enlivens a discretion but does not compel its exercise, particularly where the offender's criminality is so great that proper sentencing principles should prevail.
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