The Tasmanian Government has passed legislation that will force coroners to hold inquests into all deaths involving suspected family violence, even if there are no criminal proceedings.
The move comes despite calls from Coroner Simon Cooper to reverse the law, known as ‘Jari’s Law’, which he says will strain the state’s coronial system and delay inquests.
‘Jari’s Law’ is named after Huon Valley man Jari Wise, who was struck and killed by a vehicle driven by his “grossly intoxicated” partner in 2020.
Attorney-General Guy Barnett said the law reform passed in the House of Assembly is “consistent with the government’s commitment” to improving outcomes for victims of family violence.
“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 means obtaining these answers is made more likely.”
However, Cooper said the law will require coroners to hold at least double the number of public inquests.
“The effect of this … will be to significantly delay all inquests, thereby increasing the grief and trauma of many families in our community,” he said.
Cooper also said that under the amendment, families who do not wish for a public inquest to be held would be subjected to the broadcast of sensitive information about the deceased and their family members “for no good reason at all”.
“Coroners in this state are well accustomed by reason of training and experience to determine when matters should or should not be the subject of an inquest,” he said.
“On a not infrequent basis, coroners determine that particular deaths involving family violence issues should be the subject of public inquest.”
