Australian Immigration Daily News

The Australian Government is currently developing a proposed model for a Commonwealth Forced Marriage Protection Order scheme, in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

“The Government criminalised forced marriage in 2013 to send a clear message that this harmful practice is unacceptable in Australia,” Assistant Minister for Home Affairs, Alex Hawke said.

“Strengthening our response to forced marriage is a key area of focus under the Government’s National Action Plan to Combat Human Trafficking and Slavery 2015–19.“The Government has already committed to provide victims of forced marriage access up to 200 days of support through the Support for Trafficked People Program without being required to contribute to a criminal investigation or prosecution. “Forced Marriage Protection Orders will complement our existing criminal offences and provide a flexible civil remedy for people in, or at risk of, forced marriage.”

Launching the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC) report “When saying no is not an option: forced marriage in Australia and New Zealand”, Minister Hawke said the report aims to improve understanding of the complex phenomenon of forced marriage. “This report is the first of its kind and explores the perceptions and realities around forced marriage in Australia and New Zealand, contributing to a body of research that will be used to shape future policy in this area.” The launch of the report coincides with Australia's inaugural Forced Marriage Conference, to be held in Sydney on 18-19 June 2018. Specialist civil society organisation Anti-Slavery Australia is hosting the Conference with the support of an Australian Government grant. The AIC report provides policymakers, practitioners, and support providers with comprehensive knowledge about the problem of forced marriage as it affects both Australia and New Zealand. To read the full report visit www.aic.gov.au.

This may be of interest to Registered Migration Agents preparing partner migration applications going forward. There are many 'at risk' people from 'risk countries' being moved to Australia by sponsoring partners. Registered Agents will be on the front line.

Source: Forced-Marriage-15-June.pdf