GPS trackers to bring peace to domestic violence victims
Survivors of domestic violence have welcomed the government's plan to fit high risk offenders with GPS tracking bracelets.
The Australian first trial will allow police to watch their every move and bring peace of mind to victims who are living in fear.
For years Tina Kontozis feared for her life and in April it was brutally taken.
The Bundeena mother was beaten to death with a cricket bat allegedly by her estranged partner Stephen Boyd.
Jen Armstrong is a survivor of domestic violence and now counts herself as one of the lucky ones.
She said: "I spent a very long time sleeping with a knife under my pillow because I was so worried he could come over the balcony at any time."
It's women like Tina and Jen the State Government is finally making changes to protect.
Today they announced a $300 million package including a trial to track high risk offenders with GPS bracelets.
Mick Fuller said: "The tracking system in this case is an Australian first but certainly has been used in other countries around the world with success".
Magistrates will have the power to fit repeat offenders with trackers to make sure they stay away from victims.
Pru Goward said: "It also sends a very strong message to perpetrators that they can't go there because they will be detected."
"It really will change the lives of the women and the children who are involved in this," Ms Armstrong added.
Every year 30,000 apprehended violence orders are issued by police.
But many of these cases don't result in criminal charges and in some cases it takes up to 20 assaults before the victim reports the abuse.
More women are coming forward and it is hoped this extra support will encourage even more.
