Premier Chris Minns has stated that the NSW government is urgently seeking advice in order to decide whether or not to change the bail regulations pertaining to domestic abuse.
Minns stated that “the terrible scourge of domestic violence leaves a deep and lasting impact” during a press conference today.
“The death of these women often at the hands of a family member is escalating and horrifying to the people of New South Wales,” he stated.
The declaration follows Molly Ticehurst’s passing, who was allegedly murdered by her ex-partner Daniel Billings while he was free on bond.
The government intends to examine the choices taken prior to Ticehurst’s passing and consult with experts on the procedures that permitted Billings to be granted a bond.
“To put it simply, there are serious questions for the New South Wales Government to answer as to how the alleged offender was out on bail,” Minns stated.
“We owe it to accused victims, especially those who are pursuing legal action through the criminal justice system, to show them compassion.
“The profound anger and loss held by the family and friends of the alleged victim is completely justifiable” .
According to Minns, the advise would be especially focused on bail requests made on weekends and in small towns.
Minns stated that some bail judgements were being made by court registrars, who might not have the same legal background as a magistrate, because of resource limitations in outlying locations.
“We want to make sure that members of the judiciary wherever possible are the ones making those decisions, and bearing the responsibility of course of those decisions.”
In order to give criminals the opportunity to have a magistrate hear their bail application rather than a registrar, Minns stated that the possibility of employing video links to Sydney courts would be investigated.
The circumstances surrounding Molly Ticehurst’s death will be reported to the Bail Act monitoring committee, a panel consisting of officials from the police, corrective services, and public prosecutors, according to NSW Attorney General Michael Daley.
Anna Tonkin, Commissioner of Women’s Safety, will also be a member of the Bail Act Monitoring Group.
Jodie Harrison, the minister for the prevention of sexual assault and domestic violence, sent her condolences to Molly’s loved ones, family, and “the really tight-knit community of Forbes who are grieving right now”.
“We know that Molly is not the only woman to have been allegedly murdered this year,” Harrison stated.
“She is one of 25 across Australia.”
Harrison stated that it was imperative that the government continue to fund housing for survivors as well as early assistance in cases of domestic abuse.
