Arthur Gorrie
The superficially dull wording of an annual report reviewing domestic violence deaths, contrasts with its dedication, almost a prayer – a pledge by government agencies to learn from tragedy and do better in future.
“We honour those who have lost their lives to domestic and family violence and extend our sympathies to their loved ones who are left behind, their lives forever changed by their loss,“ the report begins.
“We seek to ensure that domestic and family violence deaths do not go unnoticed, unexamined or forgotten.“
Fortunately, helping services are learning to work together, according to the annual report of the plainly named Domestic and Family Violence Death Review and Advisory Board, which aims to save lives by learning from sometimes tragic past failures of inter-agency co-operation and understanding.
The past two years were “milestone years“ in improving these services, according to board chairperson and State Coroner Terry Ryan.
The annual report was presented to state parliament earlier this month by Attorney General and Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Minister Shannon Fentiman.
“The board is required to identify common systemic failures, gaps or issues and make recommendations to improve systems, practices and procedures that aim to prevent future domestic and family violence deaths,“ the report says.
And it is getting somewhere, Mr Ryan says.
“In particular, the board acknowledges and recognises significant work by the Women’s Safety and Justice Taskforce.
“[It] made 277 recommendations, all accepted at least in principle by the state government, covering legislative, policy, program and practice changes.“
