Protections for Vulnerable Witnesses and Victims

Attorney General Introduces New Legislation to Parliament

Attorney General Mark Dreyfus © www.abc.net.au

On 29th May 2013 Attorney General Mark Dreyfus QC introduced new legislation to protect vulnerable witnesses and victims in Commonwealth criminal proceedings into Federal Parliament.  The legislation allows a witness the ability to give evidence by closed-circuit television, video recording or video link, and to have a support person accompany them when giving evidence.

“Prosecutions for human trafficking and slavery rely heavily on witness testimony, so it is vital that we have measures to assist victims to give their best possible evidence to the court,” said Mr Dreyfus.  “The Bill will minimise the risk of re-traumatisation these victims face when giving evidence by providing appropriate support and protections.   Read more…