Liberal Nationals to introduce family violence mandatory minimum jail sentences

A Liberal Nationals Government will extend mandatory minimum jail sentences to family violence offenders.

Daniel Andrews failed record on law and order speaks for itself. Labor’s approach of soft sentences and giving violent criminals ‘a slap on the wrist’ has failed Victorians.

Jail must mean jail.

That’s why the Liberal Nationals have previously announced 11 violent offences in which a repeat offender will receive a mandatory minimum jail sentence. Some of those 11 offences include situations of family violence involving crimes such as ‘causing serious injury intentionally’.

Last week, I announce that an elected Liberal Nationals Government will include three family violence specific offences to the current list of 11 mandatory minimum jail sentences.

The three family violence specific offences are:

1. Contravention of a family violence notice or order intending to cause harm or fear for safety (ss37A and 123A Family Violence Protection Act 2008):  These carry a maximum sentence of 5 years.  A re-offender would face a minimum term of 2 years.
2. Persistent contravention of family violence notice (s125A Family Violence Protection Act 2008):  This carries a maximum sentence of 5 years.  A re-offender would face a minimum term of 3 years.
3. Non-fatal strangulation, choking and suffocation in a domestic setting which will be a criminal offence punishable by up to 10 years jail (if the Liberal Nationals are elected in November).  A violent re-offender would face a minimum term of 6 years.

These jail times will be hefty and will send a very strong message to anyone who thinks they can continue to defy the law and get away with repeat acts of violence, fear and intimidation.

Only the Liberal Nationals will introduce mandatory minimum jail sentences.

Comments attributable to Leader of the Opposition, Matthew Guy:

“Under a government I lead, jail will mean jail.

“At this election, Victorians will have a choice of more of the same from Daniel Andrews and Labor or they can vote for the Liberal Nationals to get back in control of violent crime.”

Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Georgie Crozier:

“An elected Liberal Nationals Government will work through all of the Royal Commission recommendations with an urgent focus to provide safe, emergency accommodation and support for victims.

“But we also need to send a strong and unambiguous message to offenders that the days of meaningless warnings and a ‘slap on the wrist’ are over.”

Comments attributable to Shadow Attorney General, John Pesutto:

“A Liberal Nationals Government will have a zero tolerance approach to family violence including mandatory minimum jail sentences for offenders.

“If these tough new laws save a single life or save someone from serious injury then it’s worth it.”

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