Publications and Legislation
New laws to protect victims of family violence
The Victorian Government has launched a $1.5 million campaign to raise public awareness of new laws to protect victims of family violence.
The Family Violence Protection Act 2008, which comes into force today (Monday 8 December), will make perpetrators more accountable for their actions and offers increased protection for women and children who are victims of family violence.
The public awareness campaign, using the tagline “Family Violence. Victoria has had Enough”, promotes the new laws and raises public awareness of family violence.
The communication campaign, which is supported by press and radio advertisements, posters and online activity, will increase awareness of the family violence laws and encourage victims to speak up.
At the launch of the campaign, Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls said the new laws helped send a strong message: “Family violence has the potential to cause irreparable and long term damage to those who experience it, and it will not be tolerated by the Victorian community.”
“This landmark legislation and the supporting public awareness campaign send a very clear message that family violence is not acceptable in any Victorian community, regardless of socio-economic status, health, education, culture, religious beliefs or gender.”
One of the most significant changes made in the new laws is the establishment of Family Violence Safety Notices which police can issue after hours to protect victims of family violence. The notices give police another tool to respond quickly and provide immediate protection for victims outside of court hours.
The legislation also makes it easier for victims of family violence to remain in the family home with their children while the perpetrator may be required to leave. It further shields victims from re-trauma by restricting the direct cross-examination in court by alleged perpetrators.
More information about the campaign and legislation can be found at www.familyviolence.vic.gov.au.