The government of Victoria is contemplating empowering the police with extended authority as part of an initiative to address family violence perpetrators more effectively. Proposed discussions with law enforcement involve reinforcing family violence safety notices, which are temporary orders issued by the police to restrict interactions between perpetrators and victims for a period of 14 days. This potential change would allow officers to serve perpetrators with enduring or permanent safety notices related to family violence incidents.
Victoria Police have expressed that such an enhancement in their powers could streamline the process for victims and offer immediate and long-term safety without the necessity of court involvement. Minister of Police, Anthony Carbines, highlighted the need to consider reforming the current legislation to align it with the protection and well-being of victims, emphasizing the potential benefits of enduring safety notices managed by the police. The proposed extension of police authority would require legislative modifications, and the focus of these reforms would prioritize the interests and needs of victim-survivors at their core.
Currently, the average issuance of family violence safety notices by Victoria Police stands at 31 per day, indicating a significant utilization of this protective measure. Minister Carbines stressed the importance of addressing the loopholes that perpetrators exploit to evade being served with notices, which could jeopardize the safety of victims during the interim period before court intervention orders are in place. The government is exploring options to ensure that the enhancements in police powers lead to more effective and lasting protection for victim-survivors, thereby reducing the risks and trauma associated with familial violence situations.