The Queensland Police Union (QPU) is advocating for domestic and family violence to be classified as a separate criminal offence, a proposal that the state government is now considering. Currently, officers have limited authority to act unless a victim files a complaint. QPU President Shane Prior emphasised the need for reform, stating that many instances of violence are resolved through civil avenues instead of criminal prosecution. He argues that allowing police to charge offenders directly would offer better protection for those too afraid to report incidents and streamline the policing process.
The Queensland government is open to the QPU’s suggestions and is also gathering input from various police and domestic violence support organisations. Police Minister Dan Purdie acknowledged the necessity for legal changes to support victims and law enforcement, noting that responding to domestic violence incidents requires considerable paperwork, often taking up to six hours. The government’s collaborative approach aims to explore all options to effectively address the rising rates of domestic violence.
For those affected, support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).