In a recent Southport District Court matter (24 January 2025), a Gold Coast man pleaded guilty to online child exploitation offences. The court sentenced him to two years’ imprisonment but immediately released him on a recognisance order. This means he will serve his sentence in the community under strict conditions (good behaviour) for three years, including two years of supervision by a probation officer. If he breaches this order, the jail term can be activated.

This case highlights how Queensland courts handle certain serious offences. The man had uploaded and possessed illicit images, breaching Commonwealth law. In sentencing, the judge balanced community protection with rehabilitation factors. The recognisance order (effectively a suspended sentence) allowed him to remain free under supervision rather than immediately go to prison. Such community-based orders are provided for under the Penalties and Sentences Act 1992 (Qld) and relate to the court’s power to order good behaviour recognisance. Similar QLD cases often involve weighing the defendant’s remorse and history against the need to deter and punish.

For example, in February 2024 a former police officer in Southport was given a 24-month sentence (with a portion of it suspended) after pleading guilty to possessing child exploitation material. The judge considered his guilty plea, time served and personal circumstances when setting the release date.

If you face charges or sentencing in Queensland (whether in Southport or elsewhere), it’s crucial to understand your options. Experienced lawyers can explain how prior precedents like these might apply to your case.

Our team are experts in criminal law. Our role is to sit down with you and work out the strategy that will get you the best possible result. If you have any questions about this article or any other topic of law, please call our team of experts on 1300 066 669.