Post-separation abuse is a pervasive issue that affects countless individuals every day, including myself. I have personally been subjected to this insidious form of abuse for many years. Each time I sought assistance from the family court or law enforcement, my pleas were dismissed, as if my suffering was an insignificant 'civil matter'. This label negates the severity of ongoing abuse tactics such as stalking, harassment, and coercively controlling behavior. Such behaviours are crimes in their own right and should be treated as such in criminal courts, with the full weight of the law, rather than muted and deprioritised.

The current legal framework deems these matters unworthy of criminal court intervention, relegating them to family court where they are often overlooked. This failure in our justice system allows perpetrators to evade accountability, thus vindicating their actions and leaving victims, like myself, in a state of perpetual anxiety and fear. The toll this inaction has taken on my life cannot be understated—I no longer live; I merely exist. I am constantly on edge, anticipating the next threatening move from my abusers, who feel emboldened by the lack of consequences.

What makes this even more distressing is the exploitation of my daughter in this cycle of abuse. She is used as a pawn in their psychological warfare, which fills me with constant fear for her well-being. Unfortunately, my story is far from unique. Statistics show that a significant percentage of domestic abuse continues post-separation, morphing into forms that current laws inadequately address. According to studies, nearly half of women in abusive relationships continue to be subjected to harassment and stalking post-separation.

It is crucial for our legal system to recognize and reform the way post-separation abuse is addressed. We need to unequivocally classify it as a criminal offence, with specific laws that can lead to criminal prosecution of abusers. This would not only offer justice and protection to victims but also serve as a strong deterrent.

I urge lawmakers to take immediate action in revising our legislation to include post-separation abuse as a distinct criminal offense. This change is essential to provide victims with the proper legal avenues to seek justice and regain control over their lives.

Please sign this petition to demand a change in the law. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless individuals enduring this silent, yet relentless form of abuse.