I am very happy to see this change to the system in support of domestic violence laws across the country. Here is the full media release from Sen Michaelia Cash, Minister for Women:
From today (25 November 2017), domestic violence orders issued in any Australian state or territory will be automatically recognised and enforceable nationwide under the Turnbull Government’s National Domestic Violence Order Scheme.
The announcement coincides with White Ribbon Day, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Minister for Women, Michaelia Cash, said victims of domestic violence should be safe at home, on the streets and online and should not be forced into hiding by abusers.
“Victims of domestic violence and their children should not be forced to hide because of the crimes committed against them. For those who move interstate, this Scheme will make it easier to access protection and enable them to move forward with their lives,” Minister Cash said.
“The Turnbull Government is committed to reducing the unacceptably high rate of domestic violence, particularly against women and their children. The Scheme forms part of our comprehensive, multi-faceted policy response we have enacted since coming to office.”
Minister for Justice, Michael Keenan, said today represents a significant milestone in helping victims and their families overcome the profound effects of domestic violence.
“Victims of domestic violence can now be confident that when they cross state and territory borders, they will not lose their protection or be forced to endure the stress of having to register multiple orders,” Minister Keenan said.
“This is a significant step to further protect and empower victims and their families from domestic violence as they build new lives, safe and free from harm.”
Existing state and territory laws protecting victims and affected family members will not be changed. The scheme will be supported by the Interim Order Reference Solution (IORS) which allows police and courts to share domestic violence order information from the National Police Reference System. The IORS will be in place until a dedicated and comprehensive national information sharing system, the National Order Reference System (NORS) is delivered at the end of 2019.
The Federal Government and State and Territory Governments agreed as part of Council of Australian Governments (COAG) to share the costs of the dedicated system. The Coalition Government allocated $9.9 million towards the development of this system in the 2016/2017 Federal Budget.
Domestic violence orders issues after today will automatically be nationally recognised and enforceable. Individuals protected by an existing domestic violence order may simply apply to any local court in Australia to have it recognised under the new scheme.
If you are unsure whether you need to take action, or if you have further questions, visit www.ag.gov.au/ndvos or contact your local court.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000. For sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling services call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au