In R v OCA [2024] QCA 105, the applicant sought an extension of time to appeal against his conviction and sentence for various criminal offences, including grooming a child under 16, involving a child in creating child exploitation material, and failing to comply with reporting conditions.
The applicant argued that his guilty pleas were not free and voluntary due to traumatic events experienced while in custody, which allegedly prevented him from properly considering an appeal. The Court of Appeal found that the applicant's explanation for the delay was unsatisfactory and that there was no evidence to suggest the guilty pleas were not entered freely. Additionally, the Court determined that the material supplied did not support a viable appeal. Consequently, the Court dismissed the application for an extension of time to appeal against the conviction and sentence.