Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH) is one of the most serious assault charges in NSW.

Convictions may result in lengthy prison sentences.

 

What is Grievous Bodily Harm?

Section 4 of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) defines GBH as:

• • Any permanent or serious disfigurement

• • Life-threatening injury

• • Loss of a body part or function

• • Serious psychological injury

This includes injuries such as brain damage, loss of vision, severe burns, or serious fractures.

 

Types of GBH Offences

• • Reckless GBH (s35) – Causing GBH without intending to, but acting recklessly

• • Intentional GBH (s33) – Deliberately causing serious injury (max penalty 25 years imprisonment)

 

Examples of GBH

• • Stabbing or cutting someone, causing permanent damage

• • Causing paralysis or permanent disability

• • Inflicting severe facial scarring

• • Breaking multiple bones resulting in long-term impairment

 

Penalties for GBH

• • Reckless GBH – Up to 14 years imprisonment (16 years if in company)

• • Intentional GBH – Up to 25 years imprisonment

Courts treat GBH offences extremely seriously, especially in domestic violence, gang-related, or weapon-related contexts.

 

Defences to GBH

• • Self-defence

• • Lack of intent (for intentional GBH)

• • No recklessness (for reckless GBH)

• • Mistaken identity

• • Consent in lawful sporting activities

 

Why Immediate Legal Representation is Critical

If charged with Assault Occasioning Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH), you need urgent legal help.

A criminal defence lawyer can:

• • Challenge medical evidence

• • Argue for a lesser charge, such as AOABH

• • Build a strong defence case to present in court

If you’re facing GBH charges, contact our GBH defence team without delay.