A new law recognising how pets can be abused in domestic violence is another step towards prevention, and has been welcomed by Tamworth Family Support Service.
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"The changes to these laws are absolutely phenomenal," Tamworth Family Support Service manager Lynda Townsend enthused.
It coincides with plans being made to incorporate an animal shelter for those fleeing abusive relationships in town. Ms Townsend has seen cases when Tamworth women, and their children, have suffered immense trauma as a result of an abusive partner harming or threatening beloved pets.
"I have been involved in cases where one of the victims in a domestic violence relationship was a pet," she explained.
With details too horrific to recount, she says the legislation change will make a tangible difference in the fight against domestic violence, and recognise the ways in which animals can be used.
When we are dealing with women's refuges, they are not necessarily equipped for pets, they can take the women and children, but animals add another layer of complexity.
- Lynda Townsend
Animals are often used as an instrument of coercive control designed to torment victims.
NSW Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Mark Speakman said the government's bill, to be introduced in NSW Parliament, would amend the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007 and expand the conditions of Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders.
The reforms will specify that harm to, or harm threatened to, animals is a form of intimidation and ensure the protection of animals is a standard condition in all ADVOs.
Mrs Townsend said it will hold domestic violence offenders more accountable, and given more women the courage and confidence to leave.
"A lot of women delay leaving because of fear to their pets, so hopefully this will make that real change."
The next focus will be on creating a place of refuge to home pets and animals for those fleeing violence.
"When we are dealing with women's refuges, they are not necessarily equipped for pets, they can take the women and children, but animals add another layer of complexity," she explained.
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"There is an amazing service called Beds for Pets that are in this situation, but in rural or regional towns it is not available.
"Minister Speakman actually announced some time ago that he would be happy to offer some funding to erect animal kennels within refuge environment so that women can bring the animals with them, and it's something we here in Tamworth are looking at."
Now, it all comes down to logistics and planning, but Ms Townsend says they have the generous support of the community.
