Proposed Commonwealth Parole Board: What this means for Federal Prisoners and the Community
The Commonwealth Parole Board Bill 2025 proposes to move parole decisions for federal offenders from the Attorney-General to an independent board. It’s not yet law — but here’s what it could mean for offenders, victims and families.
A Proposed Change to How Federal Parole Is Decided
In October 2025, the Federal Government introduced the Commonwealth Parole Board Bill 2025 (Cth) into Parliament. If it becomes law, it would create an independent national parole board responsible for deciding when people convicted of federal offences can be released on parole.
At the moment, these decisions are still made by the Attorney-General or their delegate. The proposed law hasn’t been approved yet, so nothing has changed. The Bill is still being debated and may be amended before any new system takes effect.
Why the Reform Has Been Proposed
The Government says the change aims to make parole fairer, more transparent and less political.
Taking politics out of parole
Right now, an elected minister signs off on federal parole. The new model would hand that role to a board of independent experts.Aligning with state systems
South Australia and every other state already have independent parole boards. The proposal would bring federal parole into line with those models.Building public trust
Decisions would be based on evidence and risk assessments — not political pressure — with clear reporting requirements to Parliament.
How the Proposed Commonwealth Parole Board Would Work
If Parliament approves the Bill, the Board would:
Include members with experience in law, corrections, psychology, victim support and community safety.
Decide who should be released on parole and set the conditions of that release.
Prioritise community safety in every decision.
Publish an annual report to Parliament.
Undergo a formal review three years after it begins operating.
Board members would likely serve fixed terms of up to five years to ensure independence from government.
Where Things Stand Now
For now, the Bill is still before Parliament.
That means:
The Attorney-General continues to make all federal parole decisions.
The Commonwealth Parole Board does not yet exist.
Details about how it will operate may still change.
If the Bill passes, a transition period will follow while the new board is set up and members are appointed — possibly in 2026.
What It Could Mean for South Australians
If you or a loved one in South Australia is serving a federal sentence — for example, drug importation, tax offences, or crimes committed overseas — this change could affect who decides parole applications in the future.
Victims and families may also see differences in how they are notified or consulted during the parole process, depending on how the final law is written.
Until the law is passed, the current process remains the same, and the South Australian Parole Board continues to operate separately for state offences.
What to Watch Next
Ongoing parliamentary debate and possible amendments to the Commonwealth Parole Board Bill 2025.
Public consultation or committee reports on the proposed system.
Government updates about the timing, membership and procedures of the new board if the law is passed.
In Summary
The Commonwealth Parole Board Bill 2025 is a proposal, not yet law.
If approved, it would mark a significant shift in how parole is managed for people convicted of federal crimes — moving the responsibility from a political office to an independent expert panel.
For now, the existing system remains unchanged, but this is an important reform to watch, especially for federal prisoners, their families, and victims navigating the justice system.
Need Guidance About Parole or Sentencing?
At On Your Behalf, we help individuals and families understand parole, sentencing, and release conditions for both state and federal matters.
We can explain what the proposed changes might mean for you and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.
General Legal Disclaimer
This OYBlog article provides general information only. It does not constitute legal advice. You should obtain independent legal advice based on your personal circumstances before making any decisions or taking action.
This OYBlog was made with AI assistance using the following source: https://www.afr.com/politics/federal/attorney-general-moves-to-create-commonwealth-parole-board-20251008-p5n0tn