By Hayley Gleeson

Posted to ABC News, 23/04/26

At first Laura* assumed police had called her into the station to talk about the abuse she had been experiencing — because they wanted to help her. Her relationship with her partner, a Tasmania Police officer, had broken down, and Laura had called police during an argument with him the night before because she was scared he was going to hit her.

Instead, she was blindsided. A police family violence order (PFVO) was being issued against her because her ex had gone to the station earlier that day and told the sergeant on duty that he felt “emotionally abused” by Laura and was worried for his safety.

We acknowledge, with deep respect the Palawa and Pakana people, the traditional owners of Lutruwita. The Palawa and Pakana people belong to the oldest continuing culture in the world. They have lived in union with Country for many thousands of years. We express gratitude for their custodianship and stand with Palawa and Pakana people.

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RESPECT

We acknowledge, with deep respect the palawa people, the traditional owners of lutruwita (Tasmania/Van Diemen’s Land). The palawa people belong to the oldest continuing culture in the world. They have lived in union with Country for many thousands of years. We express gratitude for their custodianship and stand with palawa people in the declaration that sovereignty remains unceded.

We see gender inequality as both the cause and the context of family violence. Only by actively challenging gender-based oppression can we achieve positive and respectful relationships within healthy, inclusive structures and institutions. This outcome will ultimately benefit the whole Tasmanian community.


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© 2024 Engender Equality.

All rights reserved.