TheAdvertiser.net.au

Law Council calls for more clarity about proposed family violence regimes

  • Written by Law Council


While the Law Council of Australia strongly supports the intent of the Family Law Amendment (Federal Family Violence Orders) Bill 2021, there are several issues within the legislation that need clarification.Speaking after the public hearing before the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee, President of the Law Council Dr Jacoba Brasch QC said, “while the Bill is designed to make things easier for vulnerable people, we are looking for some clarity on how the proposed scheme will actually work and how it would interact with existing state and territory Family Violence Order regimes.
 
“The Law Council is also concerned about the potential impact of this scheme on the workload of federal family law courts.
 
“It appears that the proposed Bill only allows for a person experiencing family violence, who has proceedings before the family law courts, to seek a final Federal Family Violence Order (FFVO) and not an interim order.
 
“This means that a person experiencing family violence and who needs urgent or immediate protection, will still seek remedies from the state and territory courts.
 
“It is also not clear how a person would apply for and obtain a FFVO, and when that might happen.
 
“It is critical that the government engage closely with the courts and legal assistance bodies to ensure that any measures proposed are accompanied by adequate resourcing for the courts, their support services, and the legal assistance sector, to cope with the additional workload we envisage will arise should the FFVO regime come into effect.
 
The Law Council is also concerned that the Bill may inadvertently create opportunities for perpetrators of family violence to delay determination of family violence and family law issues, by increasing the number, length and cost of family law and family violence proceedings through an additional FFVO pathway.  
 
Given the serious nature of the Law Council’s concerns, more information about how the scheme will operate and how quickly a final FFVO can be granted is needed.”

Magazine

The Future of Home Security: Exploring Electric Door Locks

In today’s fast-paced world, traditional locks are becoming a thing of the past. Enter the realm of electric door locks, a cutting-edge solution t...

Top Benefits of Installing Shade Systems for Your Home or Business

Shade systems are becoming an increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial properties across Australia. From enhancing outdoor sp...

How Ceiling Fans Can Improve Energy Efficiency and Lower Utility Bills

As energy costs continue to rise, many homeowners are seeking effective ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce utility bills. Among the variou...

The Benefits of Buying Versatile Outdoor Furniture Pieces

Finding the perfect outdoor furniture in Sydney can be a daunting task, especially when you're looking to create a stylish and comfortable outdoor l...

Pound Paws celebrates World Dog Day at The Sheaf

Pound Paws is teaming up with The Sheaf to celebrate World Dog Day with the ultimate paw-ty in Sydney's East. Locals and dog lovers can be treated ...

THE SYDNEY FAIR IS BACK AND SET TO SPARKLE

World-renowned The Sydney Fair returns to Royal Randwick Racecourse from Thursday 28 July to Sunday 31 July, offering a discerning experience for ...

Sydney Film Festival

This World Environment Day, June 5, the 69th Sydney Film Festival is offering all nine films shortlisted for the Sustainable Future Award at a disc...

All You Need to Know About Vivid Sydney 2022

Tucked into the western edge of Circular Quay and running around the headland into Walsh Bay, this waterfront precinct offers a quieter slice of t...

GRAB YOUR DEMOCRACY SAUSAGE AND SUPPORT ‘GROW AT YEO‘

Yeo Park Infants School is rolling out the flags of democracy and hosting an ELECTION DAY GALA event this Saturday 21st May to support the local commu...