Prompted by the NSW Auditor-General’s ‘Police responses to domestic and family violence’ report and the subsequent NSW Police Force Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Reform Project, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb recently announced the establishment of the DFV Registry.
It is a centralised unit of subject matter experts with 24-hour capability to provide advice, guidance, and response to domestic and family violence incidents.
“The Registry is staffed by officers with expertise in domestic and family violence issues, including investigations and victim support, as well as legal and intelligence specialists and a consultant psychologist,” the Commissioner said.
“It is my intention that we implement systems which reduce the admin and paperwork, so the focus is on supporting victims and ensuring they access agencies that help them escape the violence.
“With better outcomes for victims as the priority, this team will ensure we do everything we can to put policies, procedures, and checkpoints in place to create solutions for now and into the future.”
The DFV Registry will support all NSW Police officers in the response to DFV by providing strategic oversight and optimising the use of resources, with expansive core functions including: Quality assurance and governance; Government reporting and auditing of police area commands and districts; Education and specialist training, assessment of new programs; Monitoring and escalation of high-risk offenders; and investigative strategy and capability development.
Reports of domestic and family-related crime or abuse can be made by contacting or attending your local police station.
In an emergency or life-threatening situation, contact Triple Zero (000).
Victims of domestic and family violence can also seek advice and services by contacting 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visiting www.1800respect.org.au.
