Molly Ticehurst, Australia's 31st victim of domestic violence in 2024

Today, Australia mourns the death of a 28-year-old mother, allegedly killed by her partner who was out on bail. This makes Molly Ticehurst the 31st woman in Australia to be killed by men's acts of violence, just 16 weeks into the year. That means at least 2 women are killed each week.

In a report by The Daily Aus, Molly's partner, Daniel Billings was already facing multiple charges for violence against Ticehurst:

• three counts of sexual intercourse without consent

• four counts of stalking and harassment

• two counts of damaging property
  

He is also facing one count of animal cruelty.

Let's go through what our criminal justice system is currently doing for domestic violence.

Crimes Amendment (Domestic Violence) Act 2007 (NSW)

• Apprehended violence orders (AVOs) imposed by the Local Court restrict the behaviour of the perpetrator for a period of time and are the most commonly used legal weapon against domestic violence. It can be obtained if the victim can prove that he or she on reasonable grounds believes they are in danger.

• The order takes effect after court hearings and approvals, remaining in force for 12 months.

• A criminal offence is not charged unless the AVO has been breached.

• If an AVO is breached, they can be arrested immediately and found guilty of criminal offence with a maximum penalty of $5500 and/or 2 years imprisonment.

Now, the system believes AVOs are an important means of reducing the incidence of domestic violence and an accessible form of protection supported by criminal law if they are breached. But why are these orders issued in the first place? Why are mens acts of violence not treated as a criminal charge in the first instance?

On many occasions, offenders have been found to be violating the AVO, which in most cases leads to the death of a victim of domestic violence. While NSW Premier Chris Minns said Molly did "everything right" by apprehending a violence order against Billings, is that really enough?

Despite being flagged as high-risk, Billings was granted bail, illustrating systemic failures that jeopardise the safety of survivors, who inevitably have to live with the fear that any given moment, their right to live can be taken away.

As a society, we need to look into domestic violence which remains a harrowing reality in Australia, casting a dark shadow over countless lives and communities.

This includes implementing stricter bail conditions for individuals accused of domestic violence offenses, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, and prioritising the safety of victims above the rights of perpetrators. Additionally, there must be greater investment in support services for survivors, including access to emergency accommodation, counselling, and legal assistance.

Toxic masculinity perpetuates a cycle of violence and control, fuelling attitudes that justify and excuse abusive behaviour. It is not acceptable and a reform is more important than ever.

As a young Australian woman, I refuse to accept a reality where fear dictates my every step. I should not have to flinch or feel unsafe whenever a man walks too close to me. Safety should never be a luxury but a fundamental right for every individual.

We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the pervasive scourge of domestic violence. Every life lost to this epidemic is a profound tragedy that demands justice and accountability. It's time for action.