A critical analysis of the applications of anti-stalking legislation in Victoria, Australia

Abstract

"This research critically analyses the application of Victorian anti-stalking legislation and its efficacy in addressing stalking. A quantitative and qualitative content analysis of stalking cases heard in the County Court of Victoria was employed to identify the nature of behaviours being addressed as stalking crimes. Case analysis highlights a legislative framework that results in a blanket definition of stalking, where its malleable application is responding to both stalking victimisation and is stretched beyond the meaning of stalking. This highlights a highly discretionary and versatile law that is too broad and is applied inconsistently."