Statement from the Attorney-General

I have instructed the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to lodge an appeal against a sentence handed down in the Cairns District Court.

On 25 September 2025, William Clyde Evans was convicted of eight child related sexual offences, which included an offence committed whilst on bail.

I consider the sentence handed down to be manifestly inadequate.

My thoughts are with the victim and her family during this difficult time.

A Notice of Appeal will be lodged with the Court of Appeal registry on my behalf by the Director of Public Prosecutions.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Molly Snaylam 0448 320 555