The prevention of domestic violence bill has passed through Parliament, with the new legislation aiming to provide a new tool and support for individuals at risk of domestic violence, the government said.

The law will allow individuals in intimate relationships to submit an application to the Victim Support Agency to verify if their partner has a history of domestic violence.

The system will only show convictions for domestic violence and not allegations or pending cases before the Court.

The law also ensures data protection, as the Police will verify the applicant's right to access the information through specific criteria established by the law.

The response to the applicant will be provided within seven days, and if necessary, a risk warning notice will also be issued.

The Police at the Victim Support Agency will also explain the reasons for potential risk of domestic violence, while professionals within the Victim Support Agency will provide information about available support services.

Minister for Home Affairs Byron Camilleri and Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg said that this fulfills another electoral commitment of the PL programme, which aims to introduce new measures against domestic violence and reduce the risk of individuals becoming victims of violence.

Camilleri said that, among other initiatives, the Ministry for Home Affairs is working to bring about a change in mindset in favour of crime victims, including those who are or potentially could be victims of domestic violence.

"Through this mechanism, individuals in relationships will have the opportunity to receive information for the first time if the other party has a history of domestic violence. Therefore, this will serve as another tool in the fight against the scourge of domestic violence," Camilleri said.

He continued that this mechanism sends a strong message that violence has no place in cases of domestic violence.

Buttigieg said it is never acceptable for someone to use any form of violence against another person, especially if that person is supposed to love you.

She said that government is committed to continuing to invest in more services and educational campaigns in the best interest of society.