Push for mandatory life sentences for domestic violence murders
The NSW government is being urged to support mandatory life sentences for domestic violence murders committed when an ADVO or bail conditions are in place.
Independent MP Phil Donato has introduced a motion in the New South Wales state parliament to introduce the Crimes Amendment (Mandatory Life Sentences) Bill 2026. The bill aims to mandate life sentences for individuals who commit domestic violence murders while an apprehended domestic violence order (AVO) is in place or if the perpetrator is on bail for domestic violence charges.
Donato argues that this reform is necessary to send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated in Australia, particularly for cases involving women and children. The legislation would also apply to cases where the victim is a child under the age of 18. Despite recent legislative reforms, such as increased bail requirements and a standard 25-year non-parole period for the murder of a current or former partner, Donato believes that these measures do not adequately reflect the severity of domestic violence offenses or the community's expectations for sentencing.
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