Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) is concerned about rumours the government may attempt to push through its ill-thought through reforms to family law that will potentially put DV victims at increased risk.
WLSQ is calling on Labor and the crossbench to remain steadfast in opposing any reforms that do not put DV victims at the centre of changes.
WLSQ CEO Angela Lynch is deeply concerned by reports the government is attempting to do last minute deals to secure the passing of ill-informed changes to the family court.
“To rush this before the election is unfathomable. With inadequate consultation we just don’t know the impact. It could put DV victims at further risk”, Ms Lynch said.
“You have criticism for this plan coming from everyone. The DV sector has in no way been adequately consulted despite 50% of matters before the Family Court including allegations of physical violence”, Ms Lynch said
“No one wants this. It’s so unpopular. The NSW Law Society President described the changes as being the product of a ‘sham’ consultation process. The Law Council of Australia has raised concerns. Members of the legal profession and ex-judges don’t think the radical changes will impact wait times”.
Of the abhorred legislation’s unpopularity, in a February 14 report issued by the Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee, Senator Rex Patrick stated,
“I have never observed or sat on an inquiry where there has been such an overwhelming view amongst the majority of submitters and witnesses that the proposed legislation will not achieve the legislation’s stated objectives”.
“The government commissioned the most comprehensive review of the family law system in Australian history and for some entirely unknown reason, are hell bent on ignoring the results of their own review. It makes no sense”, Ms Lynch said.
“The parliament must wait until the full Australian Law Reform Commission review is complete and DV experts must be consulted fully – we still haven’t been brought to the table and this is a red flag to changes that will hurt DV victims and their kids”