MEDIA RELEASE - SENATE INQUIRY TO EXAMINE DOWRY ABUSE IN AUSTRALIA - 9 JULY 2018

09 July 2018

Labor has successfully pushed for the establishment of a Senate inquiry into the practice and incidence of dowry abuse in Australia.

This Senate inquiry will provide a transparent and thorough investigation into the practice and the prevalence of dowry in Australia, as well as any potential links to family violence.

Dowry perpetuates an unacceptable culture of ownership of women. Dowry extortion has been recognised as a direct cause of family violence.

Despite laws prohibiting the practice in Australia, unfortunately it still occurs.

This Senate Inquiry will enable the committee to speak and listen directly with members of the community, peak body organisations and cultural groups to discuss the issue.

“It’s important for the Australian Parliament to examine the need for a comprehensive national response to dowry and dowry abuse,” Michelle Rowland MP said.
 
“Dowry abuse and family violence have a terrible impact on women and families. It is crucial the government does all it can to reach out to women in need and support families in our community.

“I am passionate about ensuring all women from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds are treated with respect and I look forward to the outcomes of this important inquiry,” Ms Rowland said.

The Senate inquiry is now open for public submissions. Information on how to make a submission is available by calling (02) 6277 3560 or online at https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/How_to_make_a_submission

The final report is due back to the Senate on Thursday, 6 December 2018.  

If you or anyone you know needs help, assistance is available from 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732). This is the number for the National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line, which is able to assist people of diverse cultural backgrounds.