News Release/Diary note for Friday Dec 4 in Brisbane
Forum chance for grassroots perspective on domestic violence issues
Representatives of the Australian Law Reform Commission will meet with over 100 delegates at a forum
in Brisbane to discuss the complex interaction between state and territory family and domestic violence
and child protection laws and the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth).
The ALRC, in collaboration with the NSW Law Reform Commission, and in consultation with other
states and territories, is investigating this issue following recommendations to the Australian Government
by the National Council to Reduce Violence against Women and their children in April this year.
The forum is an initiative of the Queensland Centre for Domestic and Family Violence Research
(QCDFVR) based at CQUniversity. Professor Rosalind Croucher, lead commissioner with the ALRC,
will present the opening address at the forum, providing an overview of the investigation’s terms of
reference and process. QCDFVR Director, and Deputy Chair of the National Council to Reduce Violence
against Women and their Children, Heather Nancarrow says,
“This forum is an opportunity for grassroots advocates and practitioners in the domestic violence, child
protection and family law areas to meet directly with the ALRC and tell them what happens on the ground
for families affected by domestic violence and who are needing to negotiate the child protection and
family law systems”.
“Throughout its extensive consultation, the National Council consistently heard that the current lack of
systemic coordination between these areas of law and practice was compromising the safety of women
and children,” she continued.
The forum will be held at the State Library of Queensland from 8.30am till 1pm on Friday Dec 4 and
is filled to capacity with representatives from government and non-government agencies and others
wanting to participate in the discussion and have their voices heard.
According to Ms Nancarrow, recent changes to the family law system have added to the complexity of
navigating that system, particularly for those affected by domestic and family violence. “For some
women”, she said, “it may seem just too hard, or too dangerous, to try to advocate for themselves and
their children”. “On the other hand” said Ms Nancarrow, “the Australian Government has demonstrated
commitment to ensuring that safety is not compromised by ineffective or inappropriate systems, and this
investigation is part of that commitment.” ENDS
For further details contact Heather Nancarrow: (07) 4940 7834 or 0408 158 952.
NEWS 
