Introduction

31.1 A central and critical theme in this Inquiry is the need for effective education and training of individuals—including judicial officers, lawyers, police prosecutors, family dispute resolution practitioners and victim support services—working in the family law, family violence, criminal justice and child protection systems. A proper appreciation and understanding of the nature and dynamics of family violence, and the overlapping legal frameworks is fundamental in practice to ensuring the safety of victims and their families. The Commissions have also identified data collection and evaluation as important means to ensure that systems continually improve through reflection on practice.

31.2 This chapter brings together the key recommendations in these areas to give an overall picture of the policy approach taken by the Commissions. In addition, it considers the possible mechanisms and institutions required to provide and maintain quality education and training in the family violence context at a national level.