Nicklin MP hails new on-the-spot protection for domestic violence survivors

Nicklin MP and former police officer Marty Hunt has welcomed landmark reforms in Queensland’s approach to domestic and family violence, describing the new measures as “practical, victim-focused, and long overdue.”

"As someone who spent 33 years in the Queensland Police Service, I’ve seen firsthand the heartbreaking toll that domestic and family violence takes on individuals, families, and our communities," Mr Hunt said. "I’ve stood in living rooms where fear hung in the air. I’ve seen the courage of victim-survivors who just wanted to feel safe, and I’ve felt the frustration at the clunky application and court system that drags out the process for victim survivors to ensure ongoing protection."

Central to the reforms is the Domestic and Family Violence Protection and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, which for the first time empowers police to issue 12-month Police Protection Directions on the spot. “For the first time, Queensland Police will be able to issue on-the-spot, 12-month Police Protection Directions.

This means when a victim calls for help, officers can provide immediate, 12-month protection for victim-survivors without needing to go through the courts for a domestic violence order,” Mr Hunt said. “This isn’t about replacing the courts. It’s about closing the gap between crisis and action.”

The legislation also expands the use of video-recorded evidence to spare victims from retelling their trauma in court, and introduces GPS monitoring for high-risk perpetrators. “We’re rolling out GPS monitoring for high-risk perpetrators – 150 devices by the end of this year, with hundreds more to follow,” Mr Hunt said.

"They’ll also help free up police time to respond to more cases and get ahead of emerging threats. This government is serious about putting victims first.  As a former police officer, I know these tools would have made a difference, and as your local MP, I’m proud to be part of a team that’s finally delivering them."

Nicklin MP and former police officer Marty Hunt.