Family violence offenders must disclose new relationships under draft laws
Under proposed changes to Tasmania's family violence act, serial domestic violence perpetrators must tell police if they start a new relationship or join a dating site. Women's advocates say behavioural programs are critical for change.
The Tasmanian government has proposed new laws aimed at tackling family violence offenders. This includes listing serial offenders on a public register, imposing a six-month jail sentence for continuing offenses, and demanding disclosure of new relationships, social media pages or dating site memberships. At the moment, there are over 400 serial family violence offenders in Tasmania.
Magistrates courts in the state have seen a 40% rise in applications regarding breaches of family violence orders in 2024. The Attorney-General, Guy Barnett, claims this is a nation-leading, comprehensive set of laws that sends a clear message that family violence won't be tolerated. A judge will decide whether to add someone to the list, considering whether it would identify a victim.
The declaration will remain for a minimum of two years or until a behavior change program is completed. Advocates for reform say the changes are just the tip of the iceberg and demand more funding, resources, and investment in early intervention and prevention programs.
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