Local MPs Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett and Member for Bundaberg David Batt have risen in parliament to voice their concerns on the government’s Domestic and Family Violence policy.

On Wednesday afternoon Deb Frecklington MP, Leader of the Opposition moved a private members motion to call on the Labor Government to scrap its policy which gives 10 extra work days of taxpayer funded leave per year to perpetrators of Domestic and Family Violence.

Shadow Minister for Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Stephen Bennett led the debate on this issue and said he’s disgusted by the policy.

“I am extremely shocked and saddened to hear that perpetrators of domestic violence can gain access to taxpayer funded Domestic and Family Violence leave,” said Mr Bennett.

“This leave is meant to be for victims to attend court, attend counselling or look after family members impacted by the violence.

“It’s hard to comprehend how any government can be so completely out of touch as to give this leave to ‘wife bashers’.

As a former police officer and White Ribbon Ambassador, Mr Batt said he was appalled by the policy and was in disbelief of Labor’s ignorance.

“If the government thinks it’s acceptable to use hardworking tax payer money to fund holidays for criminals, what on earth will be next?” Mr Batt said.

“Domestic and Family Violence is something I take extremely seriously, it’s something I hold very close to my heart and it is a major concern within the Bundaberg community.

“Without fail, each and every week, my office gets phone calls and visits from residents who have fallen victim to Domestic violence and it’s heartbreaking.

“This Government policy is arrogant, out of touch and quite frankly I am shocked by it, I just can’t fathom how the government believes rewarding those who have ruined the lives of so many with paid days off, is acceptable.

“We need to focus on supporting those who are the victims of DV, as well as our police officers, staff and volunteers who are part of local community groups like Edon Place, who work tirelessly, selflessly and protectively to protect the victims within our community.”

Mr Bennett, also a white ribbon ambassador, said the policy is a complete joke and offensive to domestic violence victims and their families.

“It’s extremely insulting and Annastacia Palaszczuk and Labor need to make sure this
leave it not taken advantage of by the wrong people.

“We need to stop the terrible scourge of domestic and family violence.”

06-09-18