Petition · Ministry of Justice
Review processes for DV and sexual assault victim to appeal not guilty verdict
Open for signatures
39 signatures
What the petition asks
We call on Government to review and make it easier for victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence to appeal 'not guilty' verdicts when significant new evidence emerges or procedural failures occurred.
Current laws makes it very challenging for survivors to appeal. We need a specialised review process to ensure justice
In our view, the criminal justice system is deeply imbalanced. Defendants can appeal guilty verdicts, yet it is very difficult for victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence to challenge 'not guilty' verdicts—even with new evidence or procedural failures. We need a specialised review of the threshold to allow victims of these crimes to appeal.
In our view, the criminal justice system is deeply imbalanced. Defendants can appeal guilty verdicts, yet it is very difficult for victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence to challenge 'not guilty' verdicts—even with new evidence or procedural failures. We need a specialised review of the threshold to allow victims of these crimes to appeal.
Timeline
| 9 Apr 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
39
Status
Open for signatures
Department
Ministry of Justice
Opened
9 Apr 2026
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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.