Circle sentencing is a system where well respected local Aboriginal elders determine the judgment of indigenous offenders.

If there are underlying alcohol, drug or violence problems, the elders then work on intervention programs with the offenders.

Project manager Gail Wallace said the system was so successful because of the respect Aboriginal people have for their elders.

“A lot of time goes in to choosing each particular elder for each case,” she explained.

“I will look at who is familiar with the particular issue, so they can bring their knowledge and experience into the case.

“I also make sure it is a person who the offender knows, trusts and respects.

“Because there is an element of shame there, from the elders they love and respect.

“It’s about the offenders being ashamed of their actions, not of themselves.”

Circle sentencing was first trialed in Nowra for an 18-month period; now it is used in places such as Dubbo, Lismore, Bourke and Mt Druitt. It is even being trialed in other countries.

Magistrate Doug Dick said there were three desired outcomes when the system was introduced.

“We increased trust between white and indigenous people,” he said.

“It has strengthened the indigenous community and has bent white man’s law.

“It’s great that the volunteers have finally been acknowledged for all the effort they have put in.”