Jari’s Law passes Tasmanian Parliament

The Justice and Related Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2024, known as Jari’s Law, has passed the Tasmanian Parliament.

A key reform of the Bill is an amendment to the Coroners Act 1995 to require a coroner to hold an inquest if the coroner suspects that family violence has materially contributed to a death.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, said that the Tasmanian Government is working hard to improve the operation of the law for victims of family violence.

“This is the outcome of tireless advocacy and the work of many stakeholders, and I thank them deeply for their contribution,” the Attorney-General said.

“Family violence has no place in our modern society, it is something as a Government, we are working to stamp out entirely across Tasmania.

“It is critical the Government’s response to protecting those exposed to family violence is informed by evidence, and an understanding of the circumstances that contribute to family violence-related deaths.

“Jari’s Law now means obtaining these answers is made more likely – resulting in a greater sense of closure and of course a clearer avenue for justice.

“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are ensuring a contemporary, fit-for-purpose legal system in order to improve outcomes for all Tasmanians.”

The Bill also makes several other amendments to improve the delivery of justice in Tasmania, including:

• limiting the ability of the defence to question a complainant’s evidence on the basis there has been a delay in making a complaint in family violence matters;
• repealing the crime of blasphemy; and
• ensuring that there is no time limit for commencing prosecutions of ‘indecent assault’ under section 35 of the Police Offences Act 1935.

The Legislative Council passed an amendment, requiring a review of Jari's Law after two years.