The Finocchiaro CLP Government will today in Parliament debate the Domestic and Family Violence and Victims Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, delivering on its promise to put the rights of victims above the rights of offenders.
The Bill proposes strong new laws targeting domestic violence offenders, including the reinstatement of mandatory sentencing, and enhanced protections for victims of domestic violence.
Attorney-General Marie-Clare Boothby said the Bill would ensure domestic violence perpetrators faced real consequences for their offending.
"For too long, the rights of offenders have been prioritised over the rights of victims," said Ms Boothby.
"In our year of action, certainty and security, the CLP is taking a stand. This Bill brings back consequences and restores protections that victims deserve."
Offenders who harm or threaten a victim will go to prison if they have previously breached a domestic violence order (DVO), or if they breach a DVO multiple times in a short period (28 days).
The previous Labor government removed mandatory sentencing, and domestic violence increased by a horrific 82% across the Northern Territory.
Key measures in the Bill include:
Reinstating mandatory sentencing laws: New mandatory sentencing provisions which include a tiered sentencing framework from 2 to 5 years of imprisonment - reinstating provisions Labor removed.Making offenders pay: Increasing the levy for guilty offenders by around 40% to bolster funds for victims' services. These amendments also cover victims of non-domestic violence related crimes.Enhancing victim protections: Expanding the victims' register so victims are notified on more occasions when their perpetrators breach orders, including those who aren't sentenced to a term of imprisonment.Faster financial support: A new electronic application process will streamline and fast-track applications for victims seeking financial relief.
"The previous Labor government neglected our justice system; they let crime spiral, backlogs grow, and left victims behind," said Ms Boothby.
"We must do everything we can to protect victims and keep them safe from their perpetrators - that's why we handed down the biggest law and order Budget in the Territory's history last week and recently passed the toughest bail laws in Australia for youth and adult offenders.
"Our Budget includes an additional $15 million over five years to support victims of crime, as part of our record $1.5 billion for law and order.
"It also includes more than $10 million over four years to improve offerings for specialist domestic, family and sexual violence courts and specialist prosecution services.
"Our Budget announcements, along with the Domestic and Family Violence and Victims Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, will play a key role as we continue our commitment to reducing crime."
Also being debated in Parliament this week is the Attorney-General Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, which will amend various legislation within the Attorney-General's Department portfolio.
The Water Amendment (Aboriginal Water Reserves) Bill 2025 will also be debated.
The legislation will activate Aboriginal Water Reserves for the economic benefit of Aboriginal people and the Northern Territory.
