Persons providing character reference for rapist could face cross-examination

Justice Minister Helen McEntee's proposed Bill outlines that for someone who gives a character reference at a sentencing hearing, the reference must be given on oath or via affidavit.

A person who provides a character reference for someone convicted of a sexual offence such as rape can be cross examined in court, under proposed new laws.

This is one of a number of changes in the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Human Trafficking) Bill 2023, which aims to strengthen the law around sexual offences and improve protection for victims of human trafficking.