This monograph examines the reasons for recent reforms to the legislative framework for fraud, forgery and identity offences in NSW, and makes comparisons with Commonwealth and interstate provisions in light of the objective of national consistency. The increase in maximum penalties evinces a clear intention by Parliament that the courts are to treat these crimes...

Rowena Johns summarises key events in the development of the jury system in New South Wales. She looks at the types of courts and cases that involves juries, and at current jury procedures, and provides an overview of current issues including the impact of prejudicial publicity on juries, the question of majority verdicts and the...

Rowena Johns examines current laws, recent developments, and planned reforms in New South Wales relating to driving a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol or drugs. This briefing paper also examines some developments in interstate jurisdictions.

In this briefing paper Rowena Johns outlines the health benefits and detriments of cannabis use; summarises medical cannabis laws and programs operating in a range of overseas jurisdictions; and traces the development of a proposal to authorise the medical use of cannabis in New South Wales.

This paper considers changes to legislation, policy and law enforcement operations that occurred or were proposed in 2002-03. The starting point for the legislation reviewed is the Commonwealth's amendment of customs regulations, from 20 December 2002, to prohibit the importation of handguns and handgun parts for the purpose of sports shooting unless they conform to...