Tasmania proposes public register and reporting rules for repeat family violence offenders

Tasmania has unveiled draft revisions to its Family Violence Act aimed at curbing repeat domestic abusers. Under the proposals, judges could declare individuals serial perpetrators, adding them to a public register for a minimum of two years or until they complete behavior-change programs, with non-compliance potentially leading to six months imprisonment. Offenders would also be obliged to inform police if they start a new relationship, create a social-media profile, or join a dating site.

Attorney-General Guy Barnett touted the plan as nation-leading, while Minister Jo Palmer emphasized the need for consequences. Critics, including Bree Klerck of the Tasmanian Family and Sexual Violence Alliance and Alina Thomas of Engender Equality, argue that without expanded rehab capacity—currently a waitlist of over 200—and broader support services, the reforms will fall short. Zoe Craven of Women's Legal Service Tasmania called for extensive consultation and systemic investment in early intervention. The government intends to publish the draft for public comment by year-end.