Automatic language translation
Our website uses an automatic service to translate our content into different languages. These translations should be used as a guide only. See our Accessibility page for further information.
2 June 2022
The State Parole Authority (SPA) has granted parole to inmate Robert Hughes who will be deported to the United Kingdom following his release from prison.
The SPA’s Determination, by Chairperson David Frearson SC, is published here.
In its decision, the SPA acknowledged the “profound and deleterious effects on the victims…continue to this day and will probably be lifelong consequences.”
“It must be particularly galling for the victims to observe the offender’s continued and obstinate denials in the face of compelling and overwhelming evidence from multiple witnesses,” Judge Frearson said in his determination.
In granting parole, the SPA accepted expert evidence he has consistently been assessed as a below average risk of sexually reoffending and this prevents him accessing any sex offender treatment programs while he remains in custody.
However, Hughes and his wife have given undertakings that once back in the community, he will seek treatment with a clinical psychologist specialising in convicted sex offenders who deny their crimes, to assist with his reintegration and reduce his risk of re-offending.
Hughes will be deported to the UK on his release from prison as he is a non-lawful citizen, having renounced his Australian citizenship in 2020.
While deportation removes Hughes from the jurisdiction of NSW and any SPA order, Australian Border Force has advised it will notify UK authorities of his imminent return.
INTERPOL has also confirmed Hughes will be monitored by UK authorities and subject to “notification requirements” and conditions pursuant to Part 2 of the Sexual Offences Act, 2003 (UK) [the Act].
Under the Act, Hughes must:
Hughes, 73, has been eligible for parole since 6 April 2020 (the end of his 6 years nonparole period) but has twice been denied parole by the SPA. Hughes will be released from custody by CSNSW on a date no later than 14 June 2022.
Arrangements for the release of Hughes from custody is the responsibility of Corrective Services NSW and his deportation will be coordinated by Australian Border Force. Please contact CSNSW Media Unit for all enquiries concerning his release
21 Jul 2022
We acknowledge Aboriginal people as the First Nations Peoples of NSW and pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the ongoing connection Aboriginal people have to this land and recognise Aboriginal people as the original custodians of this land.