Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025

As a survivor of domestic violence, acknowledged reforms to address DFV are welcome but raised significant concerns about police protection directions potentially increasing misidentification risks, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. Supported the shadow minister's amendments for additional safeguards.

“Through consultation, the committee process and the estimates process, we heard from the domestic and family violence sector and victim-survivors that elements of this bill have the potential to negatively impact victim-survivor safety including for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As Minister, introduced and strongly supported the bill, emphasising three key reforms: police protection directions for immediate 12-month protection, GPS electronic monitoring pilot for high-risk perpetrators, and expanded videorecorded evidence-in-chief framework.

“The bill supports the Crisafulli government's election commitment to pilot GPS monitoring for high-risk domestic and family violence offenders.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill as delivering decisive action to restore safety and protect victims, citing the 218 per cent increase in DFV calls over the past decade under Labor. Praised police protection directions, GPS monitoring pilots, and VREC expansion.

“The officer in charge of one of the busiest police stations in my electorate of Mulgrave has informed me that his area is among those with the highest rates of domestic violence incidents in Queensland; 90 per cent of his station's workload is related to domestic violence.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As shadow minister, supported measures addressing police workload and some elements of the bill, but strongly opposed PPDs as currently drafted due to misidentification risks. Moved amendments requiring additional safeguards including consent, specialist review, and transparent reporting.

“Almost half of women murdered in domestic violence related homicides were misidentified as the person using violence.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Opposed PPDs as drafted, citing sector concerns about misidentification risks and removal of court oversight. Argued the bill prioritises administrative efficiency over victim safety and fails to adequately address systemic issues.

“QCOSS, the peak organisation for the sector, strongly opposes them. In its words—PPDs are an efficiency measure that does not prioritize the safety and wellbeing of victim-survivors.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As Police Minister, strongly supported the bill, citing the 218% increase in DFV calls over the past decade and the need to give police effective tools. Emphasised the reforms will return more than 265,000 police hours to the front line.

“The Crisafulli government is not prepared to continue doing the same thing and expect a different outcome. This bill delivers real reforms that put victims first and finally gives police the tools they have been calling for.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill as putting victims first with practical, targeted reforms including police protection directions, GPS monitoring and VREC expansion. Cited positive feedback from survivors in her electorate.

“One victim told me that court-imposed monitoring is the right step forward because it will make it easier to prosecute breaches rather than relying on impossible evidence like CCTV footage.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported elements including GPS monitoring pilot and videorecorded evidence expansion, but raised serious concerns about PPDs without adequate safeguards. Criticised removal of court oversight and questioned last-minute FSQ amendments.

“Reforms to ease workload must never come at the expense of victim-survivor safety. That is a line in the sand.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Opposed the bill as drafted, supporting opposition amendments. Criticised the government for ignoring expert and sector advice, citing 45 submitters who expressed concerns about the legislation.

“Good reform needs to be based in expert and evidence-based advice. It is clear that this legislation misses the mark.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As committee member, strongly supported the bill, sharing personal experience witnessing DFV's impact on children. Praised the GPS monitoring pilot after seeing technology demonstrations and supported PPDs as drawn from the Tasmanian model.

“This legislation, the Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill, will provide a victim of domestic and family violence with immediate 12-month protection and reduce the trauma of an already challenging time.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill, citing Far North Queensland's high domestic violence statistics. Praised reforms including GPS trackers, police protection directions, and 24/7 crisis response support.

“This bill is long overdue, and I am sure that as Queenslanders hear what it is about they will wonder why, just like I have, those opposite never took these steps in the last decade.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported GPS pilot, videorecorded evidence expansion and technical amendments, but raised significant concerns about PPDs. Called for mandatory review mechanisms where women are named as respondents, victim-survivor consent requirements, and proper referral pathways.

“Reforms of this nature cannot be judged on efficiency alone. They must also be judged on safety, integrity and fairness.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Raised serious concerns about PPDs making police sole arbiters without adequate oversight, potential for vexatious claims against men, and impacts on firearms licence holders. Expressed concern about bias against males in remote communities.

“Police will arbitrarily be deciding on a 12-month order with no court oversight unless there is an appeal after 28 days. That is certainly too much for us to bear on that issue. We will not be supporting that.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill as representing significant DFV protection reforms, highlighting the 218% increase in incidents under Labor. Praised local services including CADA and government funding for frontline support.

“Under the reforms, police will be able to issue on-the-spot 12-month police protection directions to provide immediate, long-term protection to victim-survivors and reduce trauma through exposure to judicial processes.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

As a survivor of domestic violence, wholeheartedly supported the bill as reflecting the government's commitment to put victims before perpetrators. Had advocated for GPS trackers since 2017.

“I remember speaking about many of these initiatives, including GPS trackers for offenders, as far back as 2017. It is disappointing that it took a change of government to see such initiatives become reality in this state.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Strongly opposed PPDs in their current form, arguing they ignore the DFV sector and victim-survivors. Criticised lack of consent requirements and cited QCOSS describing PPDs as 'an efficiency measure that does not prioritise the safety and wellbeing of victim-survivors'.

“I would say to the minister that women are best placed to determine what is best for them and how to keep themselves safe.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Acknowledged good intentions across the chamber but raised concerns about misidentification risks based on expert evidence. Encouraged members to consider the committee report and shadow minister's amendments.

“QCOSS, which is probably the principal stakeholder in this area, indicated the consequences of misidentification can be severe and potentially fatal.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Commended the minister for swiftly bringing forward the reforms. Supported PPDs as addressing the inability of police to immediately protect victims, noting that views of the aggrieved must be considered before issuing a PPD.

“Members should not buy into the argument that consent is not considered at all in this bill. It is something that needs to be taken into account by police when they are considering making a PPD.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Former CEO of Queensland Homicide Victims' Support Group opposed PPDs as currently drafted, arguing they prioritise efficiency over safety. Criticised the bill as product of QPU political campaign rather than careful analysis.

“This bill is entirely about efficiency; it is not about safety. In fact, the first objective in the explanatory notes states establish a framework for PPDs to improve efficiencies for police. There is no mention of safety in the explanatory notes whatsoever.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As committee member who contributed a statement of reservation, strongly opposed PPDs arguing they place police in the role of judge and jury. Cited concerns about misidentification affecting vulnerable groups including First Nations women.

“Nearly half of all the women murdered in domestic and family violence incidents had at some point been listed as a respondent in a protection order.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

As former 28-year police officer, strongly supported bill as providing police with needed tools. Cited personal experience responding to DFV incidents and inability to sleep after attending such calls.

“If you support victim-survivors—our women and children—and our hardworking police, you will also support this bill, no buts.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As Attorney-General, strongly supported the bill, focusing on Evidence Act amendments expanding videorecorded evidence-in-chief statewide. Defended FSQ governance amendments and criticised Labor's record on DFV.

“This bill amends part 6A of the Evidence Act, which allows adult complainants to give their evidence-in-chief in summary criminal proceedings and committal proceedings by way of videorecorded statement.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Raised serious concerns about PPDs granting police significant powers without judicial oversight. Argued the bill appears to be a kowtow to Queensland Police Union rather than effective policy based on sector expertise.

“Experts and stakeholders in the area of domestic and family violence prevention have expressed serious concerns and, in most cases, outright opposed these changes.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As former DFV prevention minister, supported most elements but opposed PPDs. Cited overwhelming stakeholder opposition and argued the government is ignoring expert advice. Emphasised the importance of early intervention and prevention.

“The overwhelming majority of stakeholders did not agree with PPDs because of the very reasons outlined above, yet what is scary is that, despite that overwhelming evidence... the government is forging ahead.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke in support of the bill as a committee member.

As Minister for Victim Support, strongly supported all three major reforms. Defended PPDs and GPS monitoring as putting responsibility on perpetrators. Criticised opposition's consent amendment as potentially leaving children exposed to violence.

“We are putting the responsibility on the perpetrator where it belongs.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke in support of the bill as a committee member.

Supported GPS tracking for high-risk perpetrators but raised significant concerns about PPDs, particularly regarding impacts on weapons licence holders and lack of court oversight. Argued root causes of DFV are not being addressed and called for a full inquiry.

“I believe we have got it wrong in this state. We have not addressed the root causes of domestic violence.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke in support of the bill during the debate.

Supported the bill, detailing the PPD framework safeguards, electronic monitoring pilot provisions, and videorecorded evidence amendments. Highlighted the 218% increase in DFV and the need for immediate protection.

“A police protection direction takes effect when it is served or when a police officer tells the respondent about the direction and its duration.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke in support of the bill during the afternoon session.

Initially expected to welcome all amendments but was swayed by stakeholder concerns about misidentification risks. Supported GPS monitoring and videorecorded evidence provisions, but urged government to work with QCOSS and DFV sector to reduce PPD risks.

“In learning about the risks raised of potential further traumatisation of victim-survivors, I make a plea to the government to work with QCOSS, the DFV sector and victim-survivors to reduce any risks.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke against the bill as currently drafted, supporting opposition amendments.

Supported the bill as an important step using new orders, GPS tracking technology, and minimising trauma through videorecorded evidence. Acknowledged local DFV support organisations including Maybanke and Centre for Women & Co.

“Domestic violence is never okay—no matter who does it or where it happens. This bill is an important step in the right direction.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke in support of the bill during the afternoon session.

Supported opposition amendments and raised concerns about PPDs bypassing courts, misidentification risks, and lack of victim consent requirements. Cited stakeholder concerns from DVConnect, QLS, Women's Legal Service and QCOSS.

“The act is about safety, not speed; protection, not productivity.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Spoke against the bill as currently drafted, supporting opposition amendments.

Strongly supported the bill as putting victims first and holding perpetrators to account. Highlighted local services including CADA and Miracle Mums Movement, and praised government funding for frontline support in Moreton Bay.

“This bill is not the end of the journey; it is the start. It is the Crisafulli government making victims and safety the heart of these reforms.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill as putting victims and women first. Emphasised GPS safety devices empower women to make decisions about their own safety and restore dignity.

“Every Queensland woman and girl deserves to feel safe and be safe. I support this bill that delivers on the Crisafulli government's commitment to put victims first.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Acknowledged bipartisan desire to end DFV but argued for additional safeguards for PPDs. Supported trying new approaches but insisted they must be evidence-based and expert-led, not focused on reducing administrative burden.

“We in this House, all of us, owe victim-survivors more than just a reduction in administration and paperwork.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Former police officer and domestic violence trainer opposed PPDs due to misidentification concerns. Cited 45 advocacy groups with issues with the bill and referenced commission of inquiry recommendations for greater oversight.

“In misidentification, what happens is that in the heat of the moment, the victim—the real victim—is extremely distressed, extremely agitated and not playing the perfect victim. You have a manipulative, controlling, narcissistic perpetrator who is cool, calm and collected.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill, praising GPS monitoring as a fantastic initiative and criticising Labor for 10 years of inaction. Acknowledged local DFV advocates including Ross Lee and victim-survivor Suzee Dearlove.

“This is a government that is interested in the welfare of victims but it is also a government that is interested in reducing the number of victims in the first place.”— 2025-08-27View Hansard

Former police officer strongly supported the bill, praising government collaboration between Attorney-General, Police Minister and DFV Minister. Thanked Sue and Lloyd Clarke for their advocacy.

“It is amazing what you can do as a government when you work together, not against each other.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported the bill as providing police with additional tools to protect vulnerable people. Praised safeguards including review pathways and highlighted GPS monitoring pilot.

“This bill prioritises safety and puts victims rights ahead of perpetrators and it is a part of major domestic and family violence reform to provide victims with greater protection sooner.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported the bill while acknowledging DFV is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions. Praised PPDs, GPS monitoring pilot, and VREC expansion as important reforms.

“At the very core of this legislation is an undisputed truth: every Queenslander deserves to feel safe in their own home and in their own community.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported the bill, arguing PPDs will free police from excessive paperwork allowing them to respond to more calls. Emphasised trusting police with these powers given they already have significant coercive powers.

“The very best way to have that happen is to unburden them of the administrivia associated with PPNs.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Opposed PPDs as currently drafted due to concerns about misidentification and lack of consent requirements. Supported Labor amendments for additional safeguards including specialist DFV review for female respondents.

“The safety of victim-survivors must be the priority of this reform and that is why the Labor opposition cannot support the introduction of PPDs as currently drafted.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported the bill, sharing personal connection to Kelly Wilkinson case in Arundel. Praised PPDs, GPS monitoring and VREC expansion as practical reforms balancing urgency with safeguards.

“What we are debating today is all about ensuring other families do not have to endure what Kelly's has.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported bill's intent but raised serious concerns about lack of checks and balances, impact on blue card and firearms licence holders, and inadequate review processes. Endorsed member for Hinchinbrook's statement of reservation.

“The bill makes the police the sole arbiters in domestic and family violence incidents. This raises serious and significant concerns about checks and balances.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported the bill as addressing a decade of neglect under Labor. Praised Minister Camm's work and the reforms including PPDs, GPS monitoring pilot, and VREC expansion.

“In my own electorate 92 per cent listed domestic violence as one of the top issues worrying residents.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As former police officer, strongly supported the bill. Noted that misidentification concerns are based on 2016 data and DFV training has been significantly enhanced since then.

“The most dangerous place for a woman in Mackay is not in the safe night precinct, in a pub or in a club; a woman is in most danger when she is in a house or residence with a partner or previous partner.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill, citing tragic DFV deaths in Rockhampton community. Argued the bill confronts misidentification risk head-on with robust safeguards.

“To oppose this bill on the grounds of misidentification is to ignore the very safeguards that it contains and to delay protection for those who need it the most.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill as addressing Labor's decade of neglect. Praised PPDs as particularly important for remote communities where travel distances create barriers for victims.

“The Crisafulli government's message to perpetrators of domestic and family violence is simple and pointed—don't.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Supported the bill, noting it was the LNP that started many DFV reforms with the Not now, not ever report in 2014. Praised the government's commitment to supporting police and victims.

“This government's legislation will empower victims and hold the perpetrators to account and make Queensland safer.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

Strongly supported the bill, noting almost half of Townsville police calls are DFV-related. Requested Townsville be considered for GPS monitoring pilot given high DFV rates.

“If we are serious about stopping the cycle, we must address domestic and family violence now.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard

As Minister and survivor of domestic violence, strongly defended the bill. Quoted victim-survivors and advocates who supported reforms at morning press conference. Criticised Labor for denigrating police and ignoring victim voices.

“I want to finish my reply with acknowledging my mother, a victim-survivor. She was pleased, some 20 years ago, when her police officer, Daniel, took out an order for her.”— 2025-08-28View Hansard