Combatting Forced Marriage in Australia

House of Representatives Passes New Legislation

The Hon Michael Keenan, Minister for Justice, has announced the passing of new legislation on Forced Marriage by the House of Representatives.  These laws clarify what constitutes a forced marriage and introduce tougher penalties for those who cause a forced marriage to occur. Under the new legislation a child under the age of 16 is deemed unable to consent to marriage.

Through this legislation the government is endeavouring to protect those vulnerable to a forced marriage and sending a strong message that forced marriage is unacceptable in Australia. Read more…