Done By Law

DBL: Family Violence Laws 25 November 2008

This week on Done by Law we talk to Judith Pearce, former Commissioner responsible for the review of family violence laws at the Victorian Law Reform Commission.

The Victorian Government recently enacted new family violence laws in response to the Commission’s report.  The new laws will come into force in early December.  Judith will outline three main changes in the law providing greater protection for victims of family violence.  Firstly the introduction of Safety Notices issued by police - Safety Notices will provide interim protection for the victim until they obtain a court order.  Secondly, the new Act provides for Exclusion Orders to be made, excluding the perpetrator from the home and allowing the victim, and often children, to safely remain.  Thirdly, a new broader definition of Family Violence will allow victims to obtain family violence orders in a broader range of circumstances.

For more information on this topic check the Domestice Violence Resource Centre Vic’s website.