Australian Law Reform Commission Releases First of Four Issues Papers on Family Violence and Commonwealth Laws

The Australian Law Reform Commission recently released the first in a series of four "issues papers" (consultation documents) on the treatment of family violence in specific areas of Australian law - including child support and family assistance law, immigration law, employment law, social security law, superannuation law and privacy law.

The first paper, Family Violence—Employment and Superannuation looks at how family violence is treated in employment, occupational health and safety, and superannuation law.

The next papers to be released will examine family violence as it relates to 1) immigration law, 2) social security and 3) child support.

A Discussion Paper will be released in mid-2011 that will seek community feedback on proposals for reform, with a Final Report due to be presented to the Australian Attorney-General on 30 November 2011.