Costs, effectiveness, and humanity are the standard justifications for community corrections, although analysts have placed more emphasis on the role of fiscal crises in the welfare state. Decarceration has not reduced public spending, however. The noncustodial sentencing options range from fines and compensation through restitution to various kinds of conditional release. Imprisonment rates declined between the late 19th century and early 20th century. The imprisonment rate was stable between 1976 and 1985 for the country as a whole. The parole rate increased slightly and the probation rate increased substantially from 1980 to 1985. Community service orders also showed increases between 1983 and 1985. Individual Australian states and territories have varied in their use of these options. Data tables, figures, 7 notes.