Penalty unit

For example, if a crime was committed in New South Wales worth 100 units, the fine would be 100 × $110 = $11,000.

Prior to the introduction of penalty units, fines and other charges were usually prescribed in terms of ordinary money.

However, the effects of inflation meant that originally substantial penalties eventually lost their worth.

Frequent amendment of the many laws and regulations dealing with pecuniary penalties would be a very time-consuming process.

Penalty units provide a quick and simple way to adjust many different fees and charges.