Thursday, 19 June 2025

Gendered violence

Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (12:39): (964) My question is to the Minister for Police in the other place. The Herald Sun has reported that Victoria Police are rejecting the coroner’s recommendation to warn women when their violent ex-partners are about to be released from prison. We know that victim-survivors should not be left in the dark, especially against the backdrop of a family violence emergency. Being notified of their abuser’s release creates an important protective barrier. It gives victim-survivors time to relocate, access support and take steps to stay safe. It is a basic life-saving measure that must be guaranteed. A notification might have saved the life of Noeline Dalzell, who was tragically murdered by her ex-partner not long after he was released from prison. Minister, what actions are you taking to improve systems and reassure victim-survivors that they will be kept safe from their violent ex-partners?

Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:40): I thank Ms Gray-Barberio for that question. In line with the standing orders, I will seek a written response from the Minister for Police in the other place.

Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (12:40): Thank you, Minister, for that referral. We know that timely information can be the difference between life and death for women experiencing violence. When coroners make a recommendation after a woman has been killed, it is because they believe that death was preventable. Is the minister willing to commit to reviewing how Victorian Police’s time and resources are prioritised to implement the coroner’s recommendations?

Enver ERDOGAN (Northern Metropolitan – Minister for Casino, Gaming and Liquor Regulation, Minister for Corrections, Minister for Youth Justice) (12:41): I thank Ms Gray-Barberio for that supplementary question. I will also pass that on to the Minister for Police in the other place, in accordance with the standing orders, for a response.