When sentencing a federal offender under s 16A(2)(h) of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth), the absence of evidence establishing the usefulness of cooperation provided to law enforcement does not disentitle the offender to a discount, although the discount may be less than would otherwise be the case. The plea of guilty (s 16A(2)(g)) and cooperation with authorities (s 16A(2)(h)) are separate considerations warranting separate discounts. A sentencing judge's reference to a plea entered 'at the earliest opportunity' may, without using the specific phrase 'utilitarian value', constitute sufficient recognition of the utilitarian value of the plea.
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