TAMWORTH’S Oxley LAC is one of the pilot sites for an Australian-first domestic violence disclosure scheme.
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Four pilot sites were launched on Wednesday in Sutherland LAC, Oxley LAC, Shoalhaven LAC and St George LAC.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward said Tamworth was chosen because of its strong police leadership, dedication and resources to tackle domestic violence incidents.
The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme (DVDS) is a NSW government incentive that will allow people at risk of domestic violence to find out if their current or former partner has a violent past.
The DVDS has been developed following wide consultation with legal experts, domestic and family violence service providers, as well as the NSW Police.
Tamworth Family Support Services have been chosen as Oxley LAC’s local service provider.
“We are excited to be involved in this pilot project and working closely with the officers at the Oxley LAC,” Tamworth Family Support Services general manager Belinda Kotris said.
“We see this as an early intervention tool.”
She said this was a NSW trial scheme which was conviction-based.
“Those who have convictions in NSW will be in the database, and that is why it is really important that people with concerns for themselves or a loved one raise concerns early.”
She said anyone in a relationship who had concerns for themselves (primary person), or a third person who was worried about someone’s safety, could put in an application with domestic violence officers at Tamworth police station.
“The person who puts in an application has to supply 100 ID points before an assessment can be done,” Mrs Kotris said.
“Primary people whose assessment results indicate a high threat are contacted within 48 hours of the application and encouraged to discuss their options.
“Even if there are no previous convictions at the time of the application, it is held on file as a notification that concerns have been raised.”
Mrs Kotris attended the official launch by Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione and minister Pru Goward at Sutherland LAC with Tamworth Family Support Services manager Tanya Rogers.
