Victims of domestic violence will now be protected nationwide with the launch of the National Domestic Violence Order Recognition Scheme, NSW Police say.
As part of the commitment to addressing domestic violence, NSW Police have joined forces with other states and territories to enforce the introduction of the scheme which began today (Saturday 25 November 2017).
Led by Victorian Police, the change in legislation means perpetrators will be held accountable for offences and breaches that occur in any state or territory, not just where the order was originally issued.
Region Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald, said the changes to the legislation were sought to improve the protection of victims of domestic violence victims nationwide.
"A need was identified to strengthen the protection of victims and place more accountability on perpetrators," acting Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald said.
"Police are regularly confronted with domestic-violence situations which have a lasting impact on everyone involved. Victims will now be better protected, no matter where the violence order was issued.
"This is a significant change and gives police more power to enforce any breaches of orders.
"Domestic orders issued prior to the change of legislation can become nationally recognised, if victims apply to any local court to have state or territory borders in place, removed," acting Assistant Commissioner Fitzgerald said.
For more information in regards to these changes, please call LawAccess on 1300 888 529 or visit: http://www.localcourt.justice.nsw.gov.au/Pages/cases/avo_procedures.aspx
