A TRIAL scheme which helps people at risk of domestic violence identify whether their current or former partner has a history of relevant criminal offences started accepting applications yesterday.
The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme delivers on a key election commitment from the Marshall Liberal Government’s suite of policies to help prevent domestic violence across the state.
Out of 23 convictions for homicide last year in South Australia, 10 were related to domestic violence, a staggering statistic the government wants to see rapidly decline.
While men are also reported to be victims, statistically South Australia Police data shows around 80pc of domestic violence victims are women and a high proportion of perpetrators are partners or former partners.
The one-year state-wide trial of the scheme involves SAPOL and the Office for Women and Women’s Safety Services SA.
Attorney-General Vickie Chapman said domestic and family violence was a pattern of abuse that escalated over time, in both severity and frequency.
“Similar trials in the UK and NSW show – even if only one victim is saved – it is a worthwhile initiative,” Ms Chapman said.
“If people at risk are able to access information in relation to their partner’s history of violence earlier on in the cycle then they are in a better position to make decisions about their ongoing safety and relationship and what supports they need.”
The trial, which went live this week, aligns with the ongoing state-wide consultation around stronger domestic and family violence protections and other government domestic violence policies.
Visit www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/dvds for more information.
