Some good moves in Australia to widen the definition of domestic violence. If such changes were made here then people wouldn;t be able to whispetr around the parlimanetary precinct that “she was mad anyway, he never hit her and she deserved it anyway” as they excuse the domestic violence of a senior political figure:
The definition of domestic violence will be expanded to include emotional manipulation, withholding money and harming the family pet under controversial changes to family law.
The changes, which become law on Thursday, for the first time broaden the definition of violence beyond physical abuse to other damaging actions , including:
- Stalking;
- Repeated derogatory taunts;
- Intentionally damaging or destroying property; and
- Preventing someone having contact with family and friends.
Women’s groups argue the changes tip the balance of family law back towards putting the safety of children first, while men’s rights groups fear they will rob children of time with both parents.
Under the changes, the Family Court will be required to ask parents if there was abuse or a threat of abuse in the relationship.
