Michael Slater, a former Australian Test cricket star, has received a prison sentence for domestic violence charges, though he will be released immediately under a suspended sentence. The 55-year-old was sentenced by the Maroochydore District Court after admitting guilt to seven offences, including two counts of choking a woman, alongside charges of stalking, assault, and burglary. These incidents occurred in December 2023 on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.
In addition to physical offences, Slater was found to have sent abusive messages to his victim, which were discovered by police during a welfare check in March 2024. After spending over a year in custody with multiple unsuccessful bail attempts, he has now been sentenced to four years’ jail, partially suspended due to time already served. The remainder of his sentence is suspended for five years, meaning that any further serious offences could result in his return to custody.
Judge Glen Cash noted Slater’s complicated history with mental health, including various diagnoses and issues related to alcohol misuse. His defence lawyer, Gregory McGuire, argued that the former cricketer exhibits a severe alcohol addiction, proposing conditional bail that involved relocating to New South Wales for rehabilitation.
Michael Slater’s cricket career began in 1993 during the Ashes series, culminating in 74 Test matches where he scored 5,312 runs with an average of 42.83, including 14 centuries. His achievements also encompass 42 one-day internationals. Post-retirement in 2004, he transitioned into television commentary.
For those affected by similar issues, support is available through the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).