In this episode of Criminal Sentencing Law, we examine issues and case law relating to the sentencing of Indigenous Australians in NSW, particularly where there is evidence of a deprived background, disadvantage, or alcohol or substance abuse. Part 1 will focus on the High Court case of Neal v The Queen (1982) 149 CLR 305 and the Fernando Principles enunciated by Wood J in R v Fernando (1992) 76 Crim R 58. The following episode - Part 2 - will examine the High Court case of Bugmy v The Queen (2013) 249 CLR 57.