Bradshaw Bill passes Parliament

The Government’s amendments to the Crime Legislation Bill (the Bradshaw Bill) has today passed the Commonwealth parliament boosting powers for law enforcement authorities to pursue individuals suspected of committing murder or manslaughter against Australians overseas.

The amendments will mean law enforcement agencies will now have the powers to pursue individuals suspected of murdering or committing manslaughter against Australians citizens or residents in foreign countries prior to 2002 if investigations in the foreign country did not properly investigate the crime.

Minister Pyne said the progression of this Bill is positive news for the Bradshaw Family, who have campaigned for over 21 years for this important change to the legislation after the tragic death of their daughter Anthea in Brunei in 1994.

“This bill passing parliament means that the bill is just one signature away from becoming law and fulfilling a very long campaign by the Bradshaw family,”

“This achievement would not have occurred were it not for the tireless efforts of the Bradshaw family. Changing this legislation will mean that never again will an Australian family who suffer the tragedy of losing a loved one overseas have to wait 21 years to see the wheels of justice start to turn” he said.

“As the Bradshaw’s local MP, I feel humbled to be able to make such important changes to legislation for my constituents”, he said.

“The final step before the Bill officially becomes law will be royal assent, after which law enforcement authorities will be able to use these new powers at their discretion.”