This Discussion Paper on the Harmonisation of Criminal Appeals legislation was prepared by the Harmonisation of Criminal Procedure Working Group of SCAG. The Working Group has representatives from all Australian States and Territories as well as the Commonwealth. This project is one of the many steps toward achieving greater consistency and coherence in Australian criminal law. It is intended that it will contribute to more uniform outcomes across Australia and improve the operation of the criminal justice system.

The Discussion Paper sets out questions relating to the reform and harmonisation of various aspects of criminal appeals legislation, namely:

• appeals against conviction;
• offender and DPP or Attorney General appeals against sentence; and
• interlocutory appeals and case stated procedures.