Which NSW act addresses the role of the victim in sentencing?

• A. Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 (NSW)
• B. Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Amendment (Family Victim Impact Statement) Act 2014 (NSW)
• C. Young Offenders Act 1997 (NSW)
• D. Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 (NSW)

Answer: (A)

The central idea is that victims have formal rights that influence sentencing decisions under NSW law. The Victims Rights and Support Act 2013 establishes the framework for victims to participate in the criminal justice process, including the ability to have their views heard and to provide a victim impact statement to the court. This statement describes the harm suffered and the impact of the crime, and the court must consider it when deciding an appropriate sentence. This act thus explicitly addresses how the victim’s perspective enters the sentencing process and ensures victims receive information, support, and a voice in proceedings.

The other options cover either more specific or unrelated areas. A 2014 amendment to the sentencing procedures allows family victims to lodge a Family Victim Impact Statement, which broadens who can present impact information at sentencing but does not establish the overall framework for victim participation. The Young Offenders Act focuses on the treatment of young offenders, not how victims influence sentencing. The Law Enforcement Powers and Responsibilities Act deals with policing powers, not sentencing considerations.