The NSW Government will today introduce landmark legislation to enshrine a Standard Non-Parole Period of 25 years for the murder of a current or former intimate partner.
It will be the first time in Australia that a specific non-parole period for intimate partner homicide has been legislated. Reflecting the gravity of the crime, the 25-year standard non-parole period will be among the highest of any offence in NSW.
Currently, murder carries a standard non-parole period of 20 years. This reform represents a 25% increase, aligning intimate partner murder with other offences that attract the state’s most severe sentencing standards, such as the murder of a child or public officials acting in the course of their duties.
“When a person takes the life of their partner or former partner, it tears families and communities apart,” said Attorney General, Michael Daley.
“A 25-year standard non-parole period reflects the community’s deep sense of outrage and the lasting harm these crimes cause.
“It is also about consistency and transparency, ensuring courts have a clear benchmark that reflects the severity of intimate partner homicide.”
The Crimes Legislation Amendment (Domestic Violence and Sexual Offences) Bill 2025 will amend the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999, following the extraordinary advocacy of Tabitha Acret, mother of Mackenzie Anderson, who was tragically murdered by her former partner in 2022.
“I want to thank Tabitha Acret for her incredible courage and advocacy following the tragic loss of her daughter,” said Premier, Chris Minns.
“No parent should ever have to endure what Tabitha has, yet she has used her voice to drive real change that will help protect others.
“This legislation is about recognising the true severity of intimate partner homicide and ensuring our justice system reflects that and holds perpetrators to account.
“We know laws alone won’t end domestic and family violence, but they do send a powerful signal about what we stand for as a community.”
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison said Ms Acret’s bravery in speaking out after the loss of her daughter had driven the important reform.
“Her advocacy has made New South Wales a safer place for women, and I want to thank her for her bravery and compassion in the face of unimaginable loss,” said Ms Harrison.
“While today’s legislation is an important step, we know there is more to do. We will continue working with advocates, experts and victim-survivors to stop violence before it starts and support those impacted to rebuild their lives.”
In the five years to June 2025, 59 people in NSW were murdered by a current or former intimate partner – 42 of them women.
In a statement, Ms Acret expressed her gratitude to Premier Minns and the NSW government for today’s outcomes.
“While no law can bring back the lives we’ve tragically lost, I truly hope these reforms will serve as a powerful deterrent,” she said.
“When Mackenzie’s murderer’s sentence was announced, it was another heart break that her case could also be used to help free violent offenders earlier. I am so thankful that part of her legacy will now be that future families will not experience the pain we did through the justice system.
“But laws alone are not enough. The government cannot do this work in isolation – it takes a united community to call out discrimination, to stand against violence, and to build a future grounded in respect and equality. I feel deeply thankful that today’s progress reflects the strength and determination of our community working together.
“This is not the end for me. I remain committed to pushing forward in the prevention space, creating opportunities for gender equality in every aspect of life. Together, we can make lasting change.”
In addition, the Government has commenced implementation of NSW’s first dedicated Primary Prevention Strategy and delivered record investment in crisis support.
