New South Wales Premier Chris Minns has conceded that the state government must significantly improve its efforts to combat domestic violence, particularly as major sporting events approach. His remarks follow a weekend marked by alleged violent incidents across the state, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a young child and three women. Two other children remain in critical condition.
Addressing a Growing Crisis
The recent tragic events have amplified calls for immediate and effective action against domestic and family violence. Premier Minns acknowledged the government’s responsibility to provide more robust support for victims, stating, “We need to do far better.” He highlighted concerns that domestic violence incidents often see an increase during significant public events, such as the NRL and AFL grand finals. Data suggests that domestic violence offences can rise by over 25 percent during an NRL game weekend.
However, the Premier cautioned that a police response, while necessary, can often be too late. “By the time they roll to a house or a unit or a flat, it’s too late,” he explained, emphasizing that many domestic violence situations unfold behind closed doors, making them difficult to detect until severe harm has occurred.
A Call for Community Involvement
In light of these challenges, Premier Minns urged for a broader community-based approach. He stressed the importance of individuals speaking out when they witness warning signs of abuse, framing it as a public issue rather than a private family matter. “This needs to be an urgent national conversation that says that if you see something in a relationship, it’s not a private family matter. This is abuse,” he stated. He noted that in many tragic cases, precursors to violence are observable long before a fatal outcome, and that community awareness can play a crucial role in prevention.
Government Initiatives and Future Needs
The NSW government has implemented several legislative changes aimed at addressing domestic violence. These include tightening bail laws, enhancing sentencing penalties, and criminalizing coercive control. Specifically, the standard minimum sentencing for murder involving intimate partner violence has been raised from 20 to 25 years, and the consideration of good character references for individuals convicted of these offenses has been removed.
Despite these measures, Minns acknowledged that more comprehensive action is required. “We need to throw everything at that,” he asserted, pointing to the need to shift community norms and behaviors away from the perception of domestic violence as a private issue. He accepted government responsibility in this endeavor, stating, “This is on everybody, including me in government. I have to take responsibility as well to curb this wherever happens across our state.”
Support Services and Funding
Concerns have been raised regarding the adequacy and accessibility of critical support services for victims, such as crisis accommodation, counseling, and programs designed to help individuals leave violent relationships. In response, the NSW Government has increased funding for family and domestic violence support programs from $280 million to over $400 million within two years. Furthermore, a commitment of $3 billion has been allocated for new social housing specifically for victim-survivors of domestic violence.
The Premier recognized that while long-term solutions like housing construction and service development take time, the immediate need for urgent services is paramount. “The grim reality for us is this is happening every weekend at an increasing rate. So more urgent and immediate services are obviously required. We’ll do what we need to do,” he assured.
Justice System Reforms
In addition to support services, the NSW Government is introducing reforms to enhance the justice system’s handling of domestic and sexual assault cases, aiming to better support victim-survivors and their families.
Coronial Process Enhancements
Changes to the coronial process will grant coroners increased discretion in appointing a senior next of kin. This is particularly relevant in cases involving domestic violence or family estrangement, aiming to prevent perpetrators from being legally recognized as the next of kin, which could cause further distress to grieving families.
Reforms for Sexual Assault Trials
Separate reforms are being introduced for adult sexual assault trials. These include a pilot program for ground rules hearings, empowering judges to set parameters for how complainants are questioned. Additionally, recorded police interviews with complainants will be permitted as evidence. These measures are intended to reduce the trauma experienced by complainants who repeatedly give evidence, while still upholding the accused’s right to a fair trial.
For those affected by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, support is available through 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or by visiting 1800RESPECT.org.au. In emergencies, contact 000. Men seeking advice or counseling regarding their use of family violence can contact the Men’s Referral Service at 1300 766 491.
