Introduction
Domestic Violence (DV) is a critical issue in Queensland, with callouts expected to exceed 200,000 this year. In response, the Queensland Police Union has proposed significant reforms designed to enhance victim protection and alleviate the strain on police resources. These reforms, if implemented, could reshape how DV matters are managed in the state.
One of the key reforms proposed by the Police Union is the introduction of on-the-spot infringement-style protection orders, known as Police Family Violence Orders (PFVOs). This system aims to provide immediate protection for victims without requiring court involvement.
Key Features of PFVOs:
- Immediate Protection: Victims are safeguarded without the delay of court processes.
- Validity: Orders are valid for 12 months.
- No Admissions Requirement: Perpetrators are not required to admit to offences for the order to be issued.
- Challenge Process: Offenders have 28 days to contest the order before a magistrate.
- Criminal Offence for Breach: The order becomes a criminal matter only if breached.
This system mirrors a similar framework already in place in Tasmania and is expected to significantly reduce frontline police workloads by up to 80%, enabling officers to focus more on critical policing duties.
Using Body-Worn Cameras as Evidence
Another reform involves enabling body-worn camera footage to serve as primary evidence in DV cases:
- Reduces trauma for victims by eliminating the need to repeatedly recount their experiences.
- Provides judges with powerful, firsthand evidence of abuse.
- Streamlines police work, replacing detailed affidavits with recorded statements.
Union President Shane Prior highlighted that using this footage could save significant time and resources, while improving judicial outcomes.
Transforming Queensland’s DV Response
If implemented, these reforms could:
- Provide immediate protection for victims.
- Dramatically reduce police workloads.
- Deliver stronger evidence to prosecute offenders effectively.
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