A new law requiring Tasmanian coroners to investigate deaths where family violence is a suspected factor has passed the Legislative Council.
The Coroners Act will be amended under ‘Jari’s Law’ to make inquests mandatory in such cases, ensuring that family violence-related deaths are thoroughly examined.
Attorney-General Guy Barnett said the government has kept a “solemn promise” to victims of family violence by passing the legislation.
“It is critical the Government’s response to protecting those exposed to family violence is informed by evidence and an understanding of the circumstances that contribute to family violence-related deaths,” he said.
“Jari’s Law now means obtaining these answers is made more likely, resulting in a greater sense of closure and of course a clearer avenue for justice.”
Despite its potential benefits, the law has faced opposition from the state’s coroners, who argued that the increased workload would put further strain on an already overwhelmed system.
Along with the mandatory inquest provision, the legislation also makes several other amendments to the state’s justice system.
One key change limits the ability of the defence to question a complainant’s evidence based on a delay in making a complaint in family violence matters.
Additionally, the legislation repeals the crime of blasphemy and ensures that there is no time limit for commencing prosecutions of ‘indecent assault’.
The bill will now return to the House of Assembly for final approval before it becomes law, after the Legislative Council passed an amendment requiring a review after two years.
