Life in prison sentence for stabbing murder

Mason murdered 53-year-old Karen Kugel by stabbing her once in the chest and twice in the neck with a kitchen knife while he was in a "drunken rage".

He also repeatedly stabbed Ms Kugel's friend, 61-year-old Marlene Xuereb, leaving her semi-conscious on the floor and suffering life-threatening injuries.

Chief Justice Alan Blow said in sentencing Mason that there were few mitigating factors to take into account, other than Mason's guilty plea and remorse.

"This was a case of domestic violence in which a defenceless woman was deliberately killed because of sexual jealousy," he said.

"It also involved a pointless attack on the murdered woman's friend, resulting in life-threatening injuries and the infliction of permanent disabilities. The only appropriate sentence is a very long prison sentence."

Mason was imprisoned eight times between 2010 and 2013 for committing offences in relation to Ms Kugel, and had been released from prison just 22 days before the murder.

Chief Justice Blow said Mason left Ms Xuereb with numerous physical injuries, including a laceration to a major artery, the removal of part of her left lung, tendon injuries and scars.

"She needs assistance now with showering, dressing, cutting up food and many other aspects of daily living," he said.

"She fears for her safety, even though she now lives in Sydney. She left Sydney because she hated the place, but has had to go back there after 16 years away.

"Mr Mason did not kill her but he ruined her life."

Mason will be eligible for parole in May, 2031.