Media release – Guy Barnett, Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, 21 November 2024

Jari’s Law passes Tasmanian Parliament

The Justice and Related Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2024, known as Jari’s Law, has passed the Tasmanian Parliament.

A key reform of the Bill is an amendment to the Coroners Act 1995 to require a coroner to hold an inquest if the coroner suspects that family violence has materially contributed to a death.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, said that the Tasmanian Government is working hard to improve the operation of the law for victims of family violence.

“This is the outcome of tireless advocacy and the work of many stakeholders, and I thank them deeply for their contribution,” the Attorney-General said.

“Family violence has no place in our modern society, it is something as a Government, we are working to stamp out entirely across Tasmania.

“It is critical the Government’s response to protecting those exposed to family violence is informed by evidence, and an understanding of the circumstances that contribute to family violence-related deaths.

“Jari’s Law now means obtaining these answers is made more likely – resulting in a greater sense of closure and of course a clearer avenue for justice.

“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we are ensuring a contemporary, fit-for-purpose legal system in order to improve outcomes for all Tasmanians.”

The Bill also makes several other amendments to improve the delivery of justice in Tasmania, including:

  • limiting the ability of the defence to question a complainant’s evidence on the basis there has been a delay in making a complaint in family violence matters;
  • repealing the crime of blasphemy; and
  • ensuring that there is no time limit for commencing prosecutions of ‘indecent assault’ under section 35 of the Police Offences Act 1935.

The Legislative Council passed an amendment, requiring a review of Jari’s Law after two years.

Judicial Commissions Bill passes the Tasmanian Parliament

The Judicial Commissions Bill 2024 has passed the Tasmanian Parliament.

The Judicial Commissions Bill 2024 establishes a framework for the management of judicial complaints in Tasmania.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, said that this was a successful step toward improving Tasmania’s justice system.

“Tasmania has a proud legal history, boasting the oldest Supreme Court in the nation,” the Attorney-General said.

“The ongoing success of our robust justice system hinges on continued and considered refining of our legislation – the passage of the Judicial Commissions Bill is a strong example of this.

“I want to thank all stakeholders involved in this process – it has been a thorough and extensive process.

“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future our Government will continue to deliver strong legislative outcomes to improve the lives of all Tasmanians.”

A fact sheet is available here.