Jari’s law on way after long campaign by victim’s mother for inquests in family violence cases

New laws will mean a coronial inquest will automatically be held after deaths in which domestic family violence is suspected, thanks to a long campaign by a mother on behalf of her late son.

Mother of Jari Wise, Faith Tkalac. Picture: Chris Kidd

A mother’s long fight for justice for her late son has been acknowledged as special legislation to better protect the victims of family violence was introduced into state parliament.

Faith Tkalac has campaigned for coroner’s inquests to be held automatically when deaths may have resulted from family violence.

She was present on Tuesday to see what she calls Jari’s Law take its first steps to becoming a reality.

Ms Tkalac’s 26-year-old son Jari Wise was killed at Huonville in February 2020 after he was struck by a car driven by his on-off girlfriend Melissa Oates.

She was charged with dangerous driving, drink driving and failing to stop and assist in an accident and served eight months in jail.

She was not charged with manslaughter or with causing Jari’s death.

Ms Tkalac said Tuesday’s tabling of legislation to enact Jari’s law was a special moment.

“It felt like everyone was thinking about Jari then. I loved it, it made me cry,” she said,

“I never thought a little bogan from the bush would be able to do it, but it just goes to show that determination and grit, and the support of so many, and you can do anything.

“The greatest thing about it is that no other family will have to wait like we did.

“We as mothers, sisters, aunts whatever, make those men go to the police station and get that report number just in case it is valid.

Faith Tkalac and her son Jari Wise, who died when he was struck by a car driven by his on-off girlfriend, Melissa Oates. Picture: Supplied

“It’s a great thing for not only women but particularly men.

“One day there will be a family that gets that inquest automatically, and it will be because of Jari’s law.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Elise Archer said violence in any form is unacceptable.

“Our proposed amendments to Section 24 of the Coroners Act 1995, will provide that a coroner must hold an inquest if the coroner suspects that family violence may have contributed to the death of the deceased,” she said.

“The proposed amendments will ensure that deaths to which family violence has contributed can be appropriately examined, even where there are no criminal proceedings.

“The evidence-gathering powers attached to an inquest, including summonsing witnesses to give evidence on oath or affirmation, will improve the evidence base in relation to family violence-related deaths.

“As Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, I am committed to ensuring that our Government does everything we possibly can to make sure that all Tasmanians are safe, equal and respected and that our homes, families and communities are free from all forms of family and sexual violence.”

Minister Archer intervened in the case earlier this year, directing the coroner to hold an inquest into Jari’s death. No date has yet been set for the inquest.

Labor welcomed the proposed new law.

“The decision follows a courageous and determined campaign by Jari’s mother Faith Tkalac and we congratulate Minister Archer on making the right decision,” shadow attorney general Ella Haddad said.

“Ultimately, nothing will bring Jari Wise back, but a coronial inquest will provide Jari’s family and loved ones with some closure and new laws will help ensure other families don’t have to go through hurt and distress in trying to seek justice for their loved ones.”