The House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs is conducting an inquiry into how Australia’s federal family law system can better support and protect people affected by family violence. The terms of reference include: how the family law system could better ensure the safety of those affected by domestic violence through early identification and response and associated support services; improving legislative and regulatory frameworks concerning the making of consent orders in cases of domestic violence; the effectiveness of arrangements in place to support families going before the courts in cases of domestic violence; and how to inform and enhance the capacity of professionals dealing with family violence cases.
The inquiry is seeking public input through public hearings, written submissions addressing one or more of the terms of reference by Wednesday, 3rd May, community statements about experiencing the treatment of family violence issues within the legal system, and an anonymous online questionnaire open until Friday, 30th June. To contact the inquiry or for further information, phone 02 6277 4230 or email fvlawreform@aph.gov.au.