Serial domestic violence perpetrators a target of draft Tasmanian laws

Tasmania is considering new laws to target repeat domestic violence offenders. The proposed changes would list serial offenders on a public register, require them to inform police of new relationships or online profiles, and impose jail time for continued offending. Attorney-General Guy Barnett says the measures will make Tasmania's framework one of the most comprehensive in the world.

However, advocates argue more funding and resources are needed for behaviour change programs and victim survivor support services. Tasmania currently has over 400 serial family violence offenders, and magistrate courts saw a 40% increase in related applications in 2024. Early intervention and systemic reform are crucial, according to Women's Legal Service Tasmania principal solicitor Zoe Craven.