Tough action needed on domestic violence breaches

Monday 15 August, 2016

Tough action is needed on breaches of domestic violence orders if the system is to deliver protection for victims of this terrible crime.

LNP Shadow Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Ros Bates said while an announcement today from the Palaszczuk Labor Government focused on the length of time and coverage of domestic violence orders, it’s more important they are enforced in our courts.

“Domestic violence orders are not worth the paper they are written on if the consequences of breaching these orders is not enforced,” Ms Bates said.

“In 2014/15 we saw more than 16,600 breaches of domestic violence orders recorded by police, an increase of 14 per cent from the previous year.

“This is a clear indication that those who breach an order are often getting away with a slap on the wrist and courts are struggling.

“This year alone there have been nine deaths across the state, which all Queenslanders would agree is nine deaths too many.

“No one should have to live in fear of violence, so if these orders aren’t being complied with, we need to do more.”

Ms Bates said the LNP will consider the proposed changes put forward by the Government in light of recommendations made in the Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an End to Domestic Violence in Queensland.

“The Government has had this report for more than 12 months, so you have to question why it has taken this long to see these changes brought forward,” she said.

“Domestic violence is an insidious crime that touches the lives of Queenslanders every day.

“We need to do everything we can to ensure breaches of domestic violence orders are treated seriously under the law.”