The NSW Government has announced that as of Friday 11 October 2024 alleged serious domestic violence perpetrators will be required to wear ankle bracelets under NSW bail reforms.
The reforms will allow the Corrective services to closely monitor the whereabouts of people being released from custody while charged with serious domestic violence offences.
The changes have come about as a result of the Minns Government launching a review into domestic violence and bail conditions in NSW following the alleged murder of 28 year old Molly Ticehurst who was allegedly murdered by her former partner who was out on bail for allegedly raping and stalking her at the time of the alleged murder.
NSW already has a domestic violence electronic monitoring program aimed at deterring repeat domestic violence offenders from reoffending, and the new changes will strengthen and build on this.
The purpose of the monitoring is to flag with NSW police if the alleged perpetrator enters a location that they are not allowed to access under their bail conditions. This may include locations where the victims in need of the protection live or frequent, including their home, school and work locations.
The aim of these changes is to give victims of domestic and family violence greater comfort and support whilst their matter is being heard in court.
The NSW Government has introduced legislation to create “serious domestic abuse prevention orders”. Under the change, the NSW Government has given NSW courts the power to impose any conditions they consider appropriate on alleged domestic violence offenders to prevent reoffending.
The legislation will also create new offences for alleged perpetrators who repeatedly and intentionally breach apprehended domestic violence orders.
If you or someone you know requires family law advice and/or has been charged with domestic violence offences give the experienced team at Meehans a call today on 4627 3333.
This article was published on 06/11/25 and the information is valid as at the date of publishing. This article is general in nature and is not and should not be considered or relied on as legal advice. Meehans Solicitors is not responsible in the event this information is relied upon by the reader in the absence of specific legal advice.