Automatic language translation
Our website uses an automatic service to translate our content into different languages. These translations should be used as a guide only. See our Accessibility page for further information.
Last published on 19 Nov 2020
Domestic violence victim-survivors will have greater safeguards in court while every Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) will contain a new protection against animal abuse after the NSW Government’s domestic violence Bill passed Parliament this week.
Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said the significant reforms contained in the Stronger Communities Legislation Amendment (Domestic Violence) Bill 2020 aimed to address the stress and trauma of testifying in court.
“Attending court can be overwhelming for victim-survivors who’ve suffered terrible abuse. Our reforms sought to ease that burden to ensure they are supported during criminal proceedings, particularly while giving evidence,” Mr Speakman said.
NSW Parliament passed the following reforms that amend the Criminal Procedure Act 1986:
Mr Speakman said the Government’s Bill also amended the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 and expanded the conditions of ADVOs to address animal abuse.
“Animals are often used as an instrument of coercive control designed to torment domestic violence victims, with perpetrators using animals to manipulate victims during the relationship and after separation as punishment for leaving,” Mr Speakman said.
The reforms changed the definition of ‘intimidation’ to indicate explicitly that harm or threatened harm to animals is a form of intimidation. The protection of animals will be a standard condition now in all ADVOs.
“These crucial changes will make it easier to respond to this vile form of abuse and improve the safety of those experiencing domestic and family violence,” Mr Speakman said.
Further details of the Bill are available on the NSW Parliament website.
Download Media Release: Domestic violence reforms pass Parliament (PDF , 110.4 KB)
13 Apr 2023