The Misconception
The need for Borrows amendment is in part based on the misconception that the repeal will criminalise parents. No one wants to see caring parents punished for smacking children on occasion. This bill is about issuing a strong non violence message and about offering information about effective non-physical discipline and support, rather than prosecution. If the Crimes Amendment Bill becomes law, use of force for correction* will technically be an offence under the Crimes Act, however for a person to become a criminal a complaint has to be laid, a decision made to prosecute and a conviction secured in court. CFYs and the Police believe it is not in the best interest of the child to prosecute parents, but rather offer support and advice, so there are other processes that would be put into place before prosecution was considered.
