Media Release | 7 May 2025
Libby Mettam MLA
Deputy Leader of the Opposition
Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence
The State Government should use National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day to set a deadline for the introduction of coercive control legislation in Western Australia, according to Shadow Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Libby Mettam.
“While first and foremost today we remember the victims of family and domestic related violence and their families and acknowledge the courageous survivors, we equally owe it to those victims to continue the fight to stamp out this scourge on our society,” Ms Mettam said.
“Although I am heartened to hear the new Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence recommit her government to the legislation during this term, the minister should be committing to introducing the legislation this year. “It has now been four years since Labor promised coercive control legislation and almost three years since public submission on the legislation closed.
“Western Australia also has the advantage of following in the footsteps of legislation already introduced by other states; much of the drafting work has already been done.” Ms Mettam said that in 2024 alone, 20 people had lost their lives in circumstances related to family and domestic violence.
“Until there is coercive control legislation in place, there is a gaping hole in the safety net protecting at-risk individuals and families,” she said.
“Again, the government is to be commended for the work it has done in public education and victim-survivor support, but we need to see this legislation in place and soon.”
“West Australians deserve legislation that gives them refuge from bullies.”
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT: Graham Mason | 0419 194 792
