On 13 February 2025, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Social Policy and Legal Affairs tabled its report on the inquiry into family violence orders, marking an important step in addressing the accessibility and enforcement of legal protections for victim-survivors of family violence.

This inquiry, initiated by the Attorney-General, the Hon Mark Dreyfus KC MP, sought to evaluate how the family law system can better support those seeking protection through family violence orders (FVOs). With public hearings held throughout 2024, submissions from key stakeholders, and insights from legal and support services, the report provides crucial recommendations to improve safety for vulnerable individuals.

Why this inquiry matters

Family Violence Orders (FVOs) are an essential tool in protecting individuals from harm, yet many victim-survivors face barriers when seeking or enforcing these FVOs. Delays in processing applications, inconsistencies between jurisdictions, and challenges in enforcement can leave people at risk. This inquiry aimed to examine:

• How victim-survivors navigate the legal system when applying for FVOs.
• Whether current enforcement mechanisms effectively deter breaches of these orders.
• Ways to improve coordination between state and federal jurisdictions for greater consistency.

Many individuals experience frustration and fear when their safety depends on legal steps and measures – which can take time, be confronting and distressing to secure, and at times can be difficult to enforce. This inquiry shines a light on those issues and aims to drive meaningful reform.

Key takeaways from the report

While the full details of the report will take time to assess, several themes have emerged:

1. Greater accessibility to protection orders
   The report highlights the need for streamlined processes, ensuring that victim-survivors can obtain protection orders without unnecessary legal hurdles or prolonged delays.
2. Stronger enforcement measures
   A key concern is the failure to enforce breaches of FVOs effectively, which can undermine their purpose and effect. The recommendations emphasise better coordination between law enforcement and the legal system to ensure breaches are taken seriously and acted upon.
3. Bridging state and federal legal gaps
   One of the most significant challenges in family violence cases is the inconsistency of FVOs across different jurisdictions nationwide. The inquiry underscores the importance of harmonising laws across states and territories so that protections apply uniformly, regardless of where a victim-survivor lives.
4. Support services for victim-survivors
   Legal orders are only one part of the solution. Access to support services—including legal assistance, counselling, and emergency housing—remains crucial in helping individuals leave unsafe situations and rebuild their lives.

The Committee’s report provided 11 recommendations aimed at addressing these issues, with a focus on:

• Strengthening legal pathways for victim-survivors seeking protection.
• Improving cross-jurisdictional enforcement of orders to ensure safety regardless of state or territory.
• Enhancing police training and judicial oversight to improve responses to breaches of FVOs.

You can read the full report here, including the 11 recommendations that are aimed at improving the family law system for victim-survivors.

How this affects you

For individuals experiencing family violence, it is hoped that this inquiry may lead to stronger protections and a more efficient legal process. If you are in need of support or legal assistance due to family violence, it is important to seek professional advice. At Parker Coles Curtis, we provide safe and confidential expert guidance, to help you navigate these complex legal matters with compassion and care.

If you need support

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, please reach out for help. There are confidential services available that can provide immediate support:

• 1800 Respect – Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or chat online at www.1800respect.org.au.
• Lifeline – Call 13 11 14 for 24/7 crisis support.
• Visit the Attorney-General’s Department family violence website for further resources: www.ag.gov.au/family-violence.

For legal advice regarding FVO or family law matters, contact our team at Parker Coles Curtis. We’re here to help you navigate your options and ensure that you receive the protection and support you deserve.