- New legislation will ensure convicted murderers who refuse to co-operate with investigations are not released on parole
- Similar legislation has already been introduced in Victoria, Northern Territory and South Australia and is being considered in Queensland and NSW
- Another key election commitment delivered
The McGowan Labor Government today introduced its promised 'no body, no parole' legislation to State Parliament.
The State Government's changes to the Sentence Administration Act will mean murderers who do not co-operate with police and law enforcement authorities to disclose the location of their victim's remains will no longer be eligible for parole.
Under the new laws, the Prisoner's Review Board will not recommend or order parole unless the board is satisfied the prisoner has co-operated with police in identifying the last known location of the body of the deceased.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"This legislation puts grieving families of murder victims first.
"The State Government recognises the significant pain and suffering that families of missing murder victims live with every day, particularly when they have been denied the chance to hold a proper funeral.
"For a family to be able to bury their loved one is a matter of great importance and a step towards closure, and ultimately this is what the legislation aims to achieve."
Comments attributed to Attorney General John Quigley:
"Release on parole is a privilege not a right.
"A convicted murderer who deliberately withholds information concerning the whereabouts of their victim's body should not be eligible for parole while the family of the victim continues to grieve and seek answers.
"The Government will continue to monitor the effectiveness of parole legislation and community expectations surrounding the release of a prisoner before completion of the sentence and make changes as needed."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Attorney General's office - 6552 6800
