Urgent Changes Needed for Policing of Domestic Violence

Media release

The federal leader of the Palmer United Party and Member for Fairfax, Clive Palmer, today said the state police ministers must make domestic violence a number one priority in police matters.

Mr Palmer said despite the government’s recent policy push, police still assign a lower priority to domestic violence than other forms of violent behaviour.

He said there still remains resistance among police when handling domestic disputes, with police responses merely involving noting the crime and referring the victim to counselling.

“Women and children’s lives are being placed at risk because police forces in the states are not accepting full responsibility for the issue,” Mr Palmer said.

“I’m calling on the Prime Minister to review all police procedures on how domestic violence matters are handled.

“Domestic violence should be treated like any violent offence and rigorous action must be taken to strengthen the response of government authorities and agencies to such a crime.”

Mr Palmer said police commissioners must immediately form an audit task force on this matter to ensure all cases are responded to with priority, investigated in full and followed up.

“Regardless of resources and budgets, police should be responsible for protecting the women and children of this country,” he said.

“I’m calling on the Prime Minister to commit real resources to this issue; $100 million is a good start but this only equates to 3.5 cents for each Australian.

“I believe the children and women of Australia are worth far more.

“This issue needs to be taken seriously and given the highest priority. Action needs to be taken not next year, not next month, not next week, not tomorrow, but today.”

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