Electronic monitoring in NSW

The New South Wales (NSW) government has implemented a new electronic monitoring program requiring alleged serious domestic violence offenders to wear GPS-enabled ankle bracelets if granted bail. This initiative, effective from October 11, aims to enhance protections for victim-survivors by allowing Corrective Services NSW to track offenders' movements and alert police in case of bail condition breaches. The program is part of broader reforms initiated after public outrage following the murder of Molly Ticehurst, emphasizing the need for stricter bail laws and monitoring of domestic violence offenders. Corrections Minister Anoulack Chanthivong assured that robust systems are in place despite the police force being under-staffed, while Deputy Premier Prue Car highlighted the importance of these measures in curbing domestic violence. The monitoring will cover exclusion zones such as the victim's home, school, and workplace, providing an additional layer of safety for those at risk. These changes reflect the government's commitment to addressing the high rates of domestic violence in NSW, as nearly one-third of homicides in the state have occurred within this context.