Forbes v R [2026] NSWCCA 147

Forbes v R [2026] NSWCCA 147 concerns an appeal against a 17-year aggregate sentence for seven offences arising from an armed robbery at the Sussex Inlet RSL, including detaining six staff members. The key issue was whether the sentence was manifestly excessive. Although sentencing statistics were not determinative, the sentence was the highest recorded for the relevant offence and exceeded one imposed for significantly more serious violent offending. The Court found the sentence wholly disproportionate, with excessive accumulation and inadequate regard to totality. It granted leave, allowed the appeal, quashed the sentence and resentenced Forbes to 10 years’ imprisonment with a seven-year non-parole period.