New immigration measures to combat domestic violence

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Created on Thursday, 29 November 2012 16:04

Written by Editorial staff

New measures to help those within a family who are victims of violence from someone on a provisional partner immigration visa have been implemented.

The immigration and citizenship minister Chris Bowen noted the assessment of violence within families would be improved under the migration law and allow a broader scope of evidence to back up any claims made.

The minister said: "The government recognises that the current process of obtaining statutory declarations with a set of technical requirements can be quite difficult for some women who have experienced violence.

"Under the new arrangements, we will streamline the evidence requirements claims for a visa on the basis of family violence to make the process easier and more accessible."

One such example is when victims of domestic violence have already liaised with government departments or service agencies, they will be permitted to submit the documentation of those liaisons in their evidence submission.

The Migration Act has had changes made to accommodate victims of family violence and takes its lead from the alterations to the Family Law Act, which went into effect back in June.

Federal minister for the status of women Julie Collins said these new laws are important for Australian society.

"Domestic and family violence is unacceptable. It's important that women do not face obstacles in leaving violent relationships and receive appropriate support and assistance.

"These measures will make a real difference to the lives of women on temporary visas who have experienced the trauma of family violence."

To ensure that the integrity of the process is protected, the submitted applications must have a minimum standard of evidence. The evidence that needs to be included was developed over a period of time in consultation with over 60 groups including women's advocates, immigration services, government departments and family violence organisations.

These changes have been implemented as part of the government's commitment to lowering abuse within the family as part of their $86 million National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.

They also take care of the issues addressed in a report by the Australian Law Reform Commission and the concerns raised by the Immigrant Women's Speakout Association in addition to the Family Violence and Commonwealth law.