The offences of 'possessing a slave' and 'using a slave' under s 270.3(1)(a) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth) overlap when committed in relation to the same person, and identical sentences on paired counts constitute impermissible double punishment notwithstanding full concurrency. On sentencing for slavery offences, the court must differentiate between the conduct constituting 'use' and the other manifestations of control constituting 'possession'. General deterrence is of great importance in sentencing for slavery offences. Additional hardship from protracted appellate processes, including the grant and revocation of bail, is a legitimate mitigating factor on resentencing.
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