Tony Buti: Laws revised to reduce court trauma for victims, Attorney-General says they set ‘new benchmark’

Sweeping changes to make court less traumatising for victims have passed Parliament, after being delayed by the timing of the State election.

The new Evidence Bill means body-worn camera footage can be used instead, so victim-survivors of family violence, child abuse and sexual assault do not have to re-live their ordeal in court.

Alleged victims will also be able to request to give evidence remotely via video link, harassing or “humiliating” cross-examination will be banned, and judges will be barred from giving juries a so-called “Longman” warning - that delayed sexual assault complaints may lack credibility.

“This legislation sets a new benchmark for how victim-survivors are treated in the justice system,” Attorney-General Tony Buti said.

“It strengthens protections and support for victims, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect throughout the legal process.

“By making it easier to present FDV and sexual assault evidence in court, we’re improving outcomes for victims and helping secure justice.”

The overhaul of WA’s “antiquated” evidence rules was described as a game changer for victims, when it was first announced by former Attorney-General John Quigley in August 2024 - but it was quietly shelved in November, as other legislation took priority.

The bill expired when Parliament was prorogued for the March election.