Crimes Amendment (Remissions of Sentences) 2021

# Crimes Amendment (Remissions of Sentences) 2021 ## What it does This law removes the ability for federal prisoners to reduce their sentences through "remissions" — credits for good behaviour that were previously subtracted from how long someone had to serve. It also changes how parole periods are calculated for people whose parole is revoked, so judges must now consider the time they actually spent on parole before it was cancelled. ## Why it matters Federal prisoners will now serve longer sentences without the option to earn time off for good conduct. If someone's parole is cancelled, the court has to factor in how long they were already on parole when deciding on a new release date — which could mean they end up serving even more time overall. ## Key details - The law came into effect the day after it received royal assent (late 2021) - It applies to new parole decisions going forward, but also affects people already in the system when it started - The changes particularly impact how long prisoners stay inside, since good behaviour no longer automatically shortens sentences — the focus shifts entirely to parole conditions and whether those are breached

🔒 Voting closed — this bill has been decided by parliament