12 June 2025
Her Honour Judge Mary-Louise Hribal, Chief Magistrate, and State Courts Administrator, Ms Penny Croser, today released the Review of the Magistrates Court Abuse Prevention Program Report (the Review).
The South Australian Magistrates Court Abuse Prevention Program (APP) is a court-mandated behaviour-change program targeted at men who have been violent towards their female partner/former partner.
The Courts Administration Authority (CAA) and the Attorney-General’s Department commenced a small-scale arms-length review of the APP in October 2024.
The Review demonstrates the strength and utility of this unique perpetrator program model. Its findings are particularly positive regarding its impact on re-offending. The findings also provide important insights into the experiences of partners and former partners supported by the Women’s Safety Contact Program. These insights will inform future developments to enhance the safety of women and children.
The findings of the Review will be used to refine and improve the program.
The CAA acknowledges the work of the Attorney-General’s Department in conducting this Review. Their participation provided both a level of independence and significant analytical capacity, resulting in a comprehensive and high-quality report.
The CAA also thanks the delivery partners for the APP, Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation, Relationships Australia South Australia and Women’s Safety Services South Australia, for their participation in the Review.
Released by Media and Communications Officer, media@courts.sa.gov.au