Friday, 3 February 2017
50th Anniversary of the last judicial execution in Australia
On this significant anniversary of the last judicial execution in Australia, it is important to acknowledge the high quality of the justice system in Australia and in particular, its evolving humanity.
3 February 2017 marks 50 years since the hanging of Ronald Ryan – the last person to be legally executed in Australia.
It is pleasing to see the rule of law consistently and successfully adapt to changing community expectations and standards. The abolition of the death penalty was an important step towards a more humane justice system.
The Law Society believes that there is a balance to be struck between compassion, rehabilitation, and deterrence. This requires everybody in the legal community to work towards achieving justice for both victims and perpetrators.
For further information contact:
Ms Sarah Avery, President, ACT Law Society, T 02 6274 0300
