News

Perpetrators of domestic violence commonly try to persuade victims to return home or prevent them leaving home by threatening to harm family pets.

Ella (not her real name) and her two children and their pets (a dog and a cat) were subjected to severe levels of violence and abuse from Ella’s partner.

The Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Amendment Act 2013 (NSW) was assented to on 11 November 2013 and will commence on a date to be fixed by proclamation.

NSW Police in conjunction with the Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services (WDVCAS) will provide an opportunity for victims of domestic violence to prepare for defended hearings.

The Coordinator of the Sydney Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service at Redfern Legal Centre has been appointed to the newly established NSW Domestic and Family Violence Council.

Come along Tuesday 5 November at 11am to Redfern Community Centre, Hugo Street, Redfern. Everyone welcome. Lunch will be provided.

“Hey Sister, we’ve got your back” is a network of Aboriginal women from all around New South Wales who are working to prevent sexual violence.

Richards & Parsons [2013] FamCAFC 74 (7 May 2013)

RLC’s Sydney Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service Coordinator Susan Smith has been appointed to the newly established NSW Domestic and Family Violence Council.

The High Court has reserved a decision on whether Aboriginality can be used as a defence in sentencing. The question has not been considered for the past 30 years, and the Court granted special leave to hear the case of William David Bugmy.