The Australian Institute of Criminology has recommended treating domestic violence perpetrators as “fixated persons”, similar to violent extremists and political stalkers, to address the intimate partner homicide crisis.
In a report to Attorney General Mark Dreyfus, the AIC proposed a trial of a Domestic Violence Threat Assessment Centre to gather intelligence, monitor high-risk individuals, and intervene when necessary.
The AIC highlighted that some domestic violence killers are driven by fixation and grievances, which often resulted in behaviours such as coercive control and abuse.
The proposed trial centre would integrate law enforcement, mental health support, and domestic violence experts to improve information sharing.
The model aims to bridge gaps between agencies holding critical risk indicators around potential perpetrators.
The Attorney General stated the report would guide efforts to combat intimate partner homicides, emphasising the need for enhanced responses to protect victims.