Over 110,000 people have signed a petition calling for a federal royal commission into gender-based violence, reflecting what journalist and researcher Jess Hill describes as public frustration reaching a boiling point. The petition, organised by Sherele Moody from Australian Femicide Watch, demands a national inquiry into systemic failures that repeatedly lead to the killing of women and children.
Why a Royal Commission?
Royal commissions are powerful instruments that compel testimony, expose institutional failures, and produce blueprints for reform. Australia has held more than 130 such inquiries over the past 50 years, addressing issues like Aboriginal deaths in custody, institutional child sexual abuse, and predatory banking. Advocates argue that only a royal commission can force governments to take gender-based violence seriously.
Systemic Failures in Policing and Courts
Victim-survivors face a 'postcode lottery' and 'front-desk lottery' when seeking help. Responses from police and courts vary wildly, with some officers acting urgently while others dismiss cases. First Nations women face even higher risks, fearing punishment or losing their children if they seek help. Hill notes that state governments pour hundreds of millions into policing gender-based violence but fail to enforce consistent standards.
Government Response Under Scrutiny
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed skepticism, asking what a royal commission would do besides fund lawyers. However, Hill counters that royal commissions can trigger seismic changes, as seen with the child sexual abuse inquiry. The question remains whether a commission would compel federal, state, and territory leaders to implement its recommendations.
State and Territory Responsibility
While the federal government is a lightning rod for anger, states and territories bear much responsibility. For example, a 2024 national cabinet meeting saw all states commit to reviewing liquor laws to prevent violence, but only South Australia and the ACT have followed through in 18 months. Hill warns that without accountability, promises remain unfulfilled.
Current Focus: Second Action Plan
Hill acknowledges that a royal commission will not happen in this term of government. Instead, the focus is on the second action plan to end violence against women and children within a generation. Consultations begin this week, and campaigners are urged to identify systemic failures, name decision-makers, and push for specific changes.
The 110,000 signatures put all governments on notice. Next May, Treasurer Jim Chalmers will deliver a budget for the second action plan, and state treasurers must contribute. If they fail, Hill concludes, 'we should march in the streets for a royal commission.'
Jess Hill is an Industry Professor at UTS researching gender-based violence and author of See What You Made Me Do. Support is available: Full Stop Australia (1800 385 578), UK helpline (0808 2000 247), US hotline (1-800-799-SAFE), or international helplines via befrienders.org.
