NSW Police Slammed for Domestic Violence Inaction
One woman each week is killed by her partner - and around 650 family violence matters occur each day around the nation. In recent times, our politicians and the media have highlighted the gravity of Australia’s domestic violence problem. Earlier...
Women Imprisoned for Being Too Noisy During Sex
In a case of truth being stranger than fiction, a British woman has been imprisoned for two weeks for being too noisy during sex. That’s right - noisy sex. Following complaints from her sleep-deprived neighbours, the local council took action...
Domestic Violence Offenders to Wear Tracking Devices
GPS trackers are becoming an increasingly common tool of law enforcement. They can function both as a punishment as well as a preventative measure against future crimes taking place. They are currently used on those who commit child sex offences...
Will the National Domestic Violence Scheme be Effective?
The death of 11-year-old Victorian boy Luke Batty at the hands of his father in February 2014 highlighted for many the seriousness and the cost of domestic violence, and sparked a national campaign to protect women and children. More than...
Both Partners Responsible for a Violent Relationship?
Last week, a controversial opinion piece was published in Melbourne’s The Age newspaper. Written by a clinical psychologist by the name of Sallee McLaren, it suggested that there is a ’50:50 contribution to the final outcome of violence’ by both...
Sophie Monk’s Ordeal is Finally Over
Repeatedly calling, texting or following someone who you’ve got a crush on might seem relatively harmless - but crossing the line can result in serious consequences under the law. The rise of social media has made it easier to find...
Can I Drop the AVO and Assault Charges Against My Partner?
It’s no secret that some people use Apprehended Violence Orders (AVOs) for purposes other than protecting themselves from violence. Nor is it a secret that many complaints of assault are exaggerated or completely unbased. Allegations of domestic violence are sometimes...
Battered Woman Syndrome: A Help or Hindrance?
Acting in self-defence is a well-known way to beat a murder charge. It is a complete defence, which means that a person charged with murder will be found not guilty of both murder and manslaughter if self defence is successfully...
Woman Avoids Prison after Killing Abusive Partner: Fair?
Jessica Silva had ended her abusive relationship of four years, over which time her partner, James Polkinghorne, had repeatedly tormented her. She did not report the abuse to police because she was too scared, and she didn’t think police could...
Do We Need a Domestic Violence Register?
In the lead-up to the NSW state election, Premier Mike Baird has proposed a statewide domestic violence register to record the names of people who have previously been convicted of domestic violence offences. The Premier made the announcement at the...
