Parole and Parole Authorities in Australia: A System in Crisis?

Abstract

The issue of parole has received significant attention in Australia in the wake of the high profile killing of Jill Meagher by parolee Adrian Bayley. This article presents an overview of the laws governing the decision to grant and revoke parole, including the factors that parole authorities must consider. The imposition of parole conditions is also examined. The article then presents a review of recent data on parole decision-making from each State and Territory, as well as considering recent legal and policy developments. The article concludes that parole serves multiple purposes and parole authorities have an important, if controversial, role to play in the justice system. Accordingly, they require adequate support to perform this role appropriately.

Keywords: Parole, prison release, Australia