Violence courts
A court pilot, coordinated with local support services and Victoria Police, aims to be a “one stop shop” for helping people dealing with family violence.
Two “Domestic Violence Courts” will operate in Heidelberg and Ballarat from early next year, following an announcement by the Attorney-General in June.
Locations were chosen following a selection process involving community and government department representatives.
The courts will operate as a division of the Magistrates’ Court and will have the power to hear Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal applications as well as civil and criminal matters.
Last year, almost 29,000 family violence reports were made to police with violence being cited as a factor in more than 60% of divorces. More information From the Bookshop
Disrupted Families: The law $49.50.
R Alexander, Domestic Violence in Australia: The Legal Response. $55.
Useful web links
www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au – this site has information about support and services for people in domestic violence situations. Conduct a search on the words “domestic violence”.
www.dvirc.org.au – Domestic Violence and Incest Resource Centre
Disclaimer:
The information in this newsletter is not intended to be a complete statement of the law relating to the issues raised. Accordingly, no person should rely on this information without first obtaining specific advice from Paula Leslie of our office. | 
