Family violence strategy
The Family Violence Strategy sets out the Courts’ commitment to address family violence when it is an issue for court clients. The strategy resulted from consultation with the legal profession, the community, clients and other service providers.
The strategy provides for action in these key areas:
- information and communication
- security
- training
- resolving the dispute, and
- making the decision.
The Guiding Principles of the strategy are:
1. Primacy of safety: all who attend the Courts and work on court premises should be safe.
2. Recognition of the impact of family violence: family violence may occur prior, during and after separation and may impact on clients' capacity to effectively participate in court events.
3. Recognition of the impact of violence on children: family violence has a significant impact on the well-being of children.
4. Recognition of the diversity of court clients: The Courts are committed to ensuring that they continue to be responsive to the range of specific needs of diverse client groups.
5. Risk assessment approach: a risk assessment approach to the conduct of all court events is required to support a safe environment.
6. Importance of information provision: relevant, accurate and comprehensive information on the Courts’ responses to family violence should be widely available and produced in a range of formats to meet the needs of the Courts’ diverse client base.
7. Community partnership approach: partnerships between the Court and a wide range of organisations, agencies and community groups are essential for the success of the Family Violence Strategy.
8. Importance of development programs: ongoing support to judicial officers and staff through the provision of development programs and access to current research on family violence issues is an important factor in assuring the success of the Family Violence Strategy.
If you have any feedback or comments on the family violence information please email enquiries@familylawcourts.gov.au or call 1300 352 000.