Delay between offence and arrest is not automatically a mitigating factor; the offender bears the burden of demonstrating unfairness resulting from the delay. A sentencing judge may appropriately consider the interest of a regulator and employer in knowing of a conviction when exercising the discretion to record a conviction under s 12 of the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld), particularly where the offender works with children. The recording of a conviction for supply of a dangerous drug does not necessarily preclude the offender from obtaining a blue card under the Working with Children (Risk Management and Screening) Act 2000 (Qld).
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