Faster information sharing to help tackle domestic violence

The Palaszczuk Government has streamlined the processing of Domestic Violence Order applications in a move designed to save lives.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Yvette D’Ath announced today police will receive details of private applications for Domestic Violence Orders as soon as these details are entered into the Queensland-Wide Integrated Courts (QWIC) criminal case management system operated by the Magistrates Courts of Queensland.

Any court decisions that result from these applications will also be rapidly available to police.

The moves are a response to one of the key recommendations in the Not Now, Not Ever: Putting an End to Domestic Violence in Queensland report.

“This latest QWIC project will allow our police to better protect people affected by domestic violence,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“It makes the exchange of information between courts and police more effective and efficient.

“In situations where every minute can matter, this rapid sharing of information between courts and the police can be of critical importance, providing police with the most up-to-date information possible when they are dealing with domestic violence situations.

“This will help save lives.”

Mrs D’Ath said police would be able to take action sooner when needed, and would arrive at an address better informed.

The changes also mean police can serve an application upon a respondent more quickly, and ensure that respondent is immediately aware what the application requires of them.

The next phase in the Palaszczuk Government’s response to the Not Now, Not Ever report is due to occur early next year.

That step will allow police-initiated DFV applications to be shared electronically –and therefore more quickly, with the courts.

Mrs D’Ath praised the hard work and close cooperation of courts and police on this major information-sharing project.

“The ultimate goal is to prevent senseless, tragic consequences associated with domestic and family violence,” Mrs D’Ath said.

“Improving the electronic exchange of information between courts and police will help the justice system and frontline officers provide better protection to those affected by domestic violence.”

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