Chris Ellison (WA, Liberal Party, Minister for Human Services) Share this | Hansard source

I echo those sentiments. Of course, the government does not agree to this amendment but let me put it this way: while sometimes the wishes of a particular resident may not be met, the provision of compulsory reporting ensures the safety of all residents is paramount. There can be no pressure on a resident to encourage them not to report, because the approved provider will then be required to report. It is a recognition of the broader need to ensure the safety of others. That is why the legislation adopts a cautious approach by requiring the reporting of all allegations to the police and the department regardless of whether a resident agrees that such reporting occur.

Again, I understand the reasons that the Democrats moved this amendment—it was a concern that was expressed by the Democrats during the Senate inquiry—but the government believes, on balance, that it should maintain its stance on this matter and that the protection in the broad of other residents is a more important and competing interest than the choice as to whether a victim can say they do not want to report. It is a very important issue. It is important to remember that the police and the department will deal with any issue sensitively. Of course, the police can take into account the wishes of an alleged victim as to whether charges are pressed, and that is something they do daily.