New domestic violence inquiry to probe national failures in keeping victims safe

A new parliamentary inquiry into domestic violence will give survivors a fresh opportunity to “have their voices heard” on Australia’s scourge of abuse, with advocates cautiously optimistic it will achieve more than previous probes.

It comes less than a fortnight after a Senate inquiry into domestic violence drew fierce criticism for wrapping three months early, having not taken any submissions or held public hearings, with Centre Alliance Senator Rex Patrick slamming the committee for failing to “discharge its responsibility” to the Parliament and the public.

Now, the Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs has been tasked with reporting on measures to prevent all forms of violence against women and their children, including coercive control, and the efficacy of perpetrator intervention programs, among other issues.

Under the proposed terms of reference the committee will also examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the prevalence of abuse, which has so far been difficult to measure — though many frontline services have been reporting surges in demand for help during lockdowns.

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