A prisoner who has a 'head sentence' of less than five years and who has a fixed non-parole period, is entitled to be released on parole within thirty days of completing the non-parole period [Correctional Services Act 1982 s.66].

By contrast, a prisoner who has been sentenced for a sexual offence or whose 'head sentence' is five years or more may, at the conclusion of the non-parole period, apply to the Parole Board to decide if they should be released. If it decides against release, the prisoner cannot apply to be released again until six months has expired [Correctional Services Act 1982 s.67].