We welcome the announcement by the Federal and NSW governments of a joint examination of ways to harmonise domestic violence and family law.

We have long advocated a review of all legislation relevant to violence against women, and the strengthening and harmonising of laws across the states and territories.

“We have seen a step forward in the protection of women and children around Australia,” said National Director Claire Mallinson. “The legal protection and support a woman receives should not depend upon her postcode.”

While prosecution of most crimes against women is the responsibility of the states and territories, our research has found that harmonising these laws would be an essential part of an effective National Plan of Action to Address Violence Against Women and Children.

We are encouraged by the collaboration between Federal and State governments on this entrenched social problem, and urge States and Territories to support the forthcoming National Action Plan of Action to address violence against women and children. Our research has shown this plan will be most successful if it includes all ministerial portfolios and all levels of government.

We also welcome the Commonwealth Attorney General’s comments that the Government is developing a multi-disciplinary training package for professionals working with families at risk.

We commend this initiative, as Australia currently has no national standards for the training of police and legal professionals on violence against women. It is internationally recognised good practice that anyone involved in the investigation and prosecution of violence is trained specifically in the needs of women. We call for this training to include police, prosecutors and the judiciary, to sensitise them to the needs of women.