Submission on Section 59

This submission supported the Bill and advised that this was a a significant opportunity for our politicians to demonstrate leadership and a commitment to a violence-free society.

The Families Commission pointed out that the legislation would provide children with the same protections as adults, and would be more consistent with moves to reduce family violence. The Commission recommended that repeal of Section 59 of the Crimes Act be accompanied by improved access to information and parenting programmes about child discipline, and that there should be extensive public education about the changes.