| Abstract: | The 2006 Report of the Law Reform Committee of the Victorian Parliament into the Coroners Act 1985 (Vic) is a substantial and visionary document which has the potential to take coronial law reform in important new directions. It draws upon a range of reforms trialled in other jurisdictions, but proposes to consolidate a new role for the coroner as a public health official with a formally acknowledged focus on facilitating avoidance of avoidable deaths. Some of its Shipman-inspired proposals require further consideration but the general tenor of the Report - to recognise the distinctive functions of inquests and their potential to alleviate community concerns, respond to family members' needs and reduce the potential for dangerous conduct--deserves support. |
