The Federal Government is under fire over a new inquiry into the family law system. Many believe family courts are failing Australians but are worried the inquiry will be biased.

Ha-Teya Gripske reports.

TRANSCRIPT

The family law system is intended to support parents and children, but a new inquiry will investigate whether it is fit for its purpose.

Following accusations the inquiry will be biased and rigged against men, Prime Minister Scott Morrison has ensured real Australians will tell their stories.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “This isn’t about picking sides, it’s about listening to Australians.”

Still, former opposition leader Bill Shorten was worried the inquiry could be skewed against a minority.

Bill Shorten, Labor MP: “We’ve got to make sure that this doesn’t become just a soap box for some points of view in the system.”

The woman who had been calling for the inquiry for 23 years, Senator Pauline Hanson, held back tears over her own personal experiences, as she welcomed the news.

Pauline Hanson, Senator: “I just feel that, forget about the politics, the whole lot, I’m fighting for equality for all Australians.”

But the news has angered others who feel the 12 month inquiry will take too long and lead to more abuse.

Angela Lynch, Women’s Legal Services Qld: “How many more women and children have to die in this system, and we’re now going to wait another 12 months.”

Nevertheless, Scott Morrison promises the inquiry will be broader in scope than past reviews, and rejects suggestions change will be slow.

Scott Morrison, Prime Minister: “We’ve heard from the lawyers, I want to hear from the Australians.”

Ha-Teya Gripske, QUT News.