Using ‘good character' in child sex abuse cases

Advocates for survivors of child sexual abuse are campaigning to remove consideration of a lack of criminal history and the provision of 'good character references' during sentencing for such crimes.

The 'Your Reference Ain't Relevant' campaign was founded by advocates Jarad Grice and Harrison James who are both survivors of child sexual abuse themselves.

The campaign was tabled in New South Wales parliament on Tuesday 22 August 2023, which marks progress towards parliamentary debate on the legislative change Grice and James are seeking.

'Your Reference Ain't Relevant' was launched on 11 May 2023, with an associated petition amassing over 4,000 signatures before it closed.