The Fight Against Domestic, Family, and Sexual Violence in the ACT
As incidents of domestic violence continue to rise in the ACT and across Australia, the ACT Government is taking significant steps to prevent and respond to these issues. The 2024-25 ACT Budget includes a strong focus on addressing domestic, family, and sexual violence, with a particular emphasis on coercive control.
Addressing Coercive Control
- The Budget allocates funding for a coercive control package aimed at increasing understanding and improving responses to this specific type of domestic violence.
- Frontline agencies such as ACT Policing and the Courts will receive training on identifying and responding to coercive control.
- A public education campaign, informed by specialist coercive control expertise, will also be launched to raise awareness and provide support.
Boosting Frontline Response Services
- Significant funding will be provided to frontline response services that play a crucial role in keeping women and families safe.
- Organizations such as the Domestic Violence Crisis Service, Canberra Rape Crisis Centre, YWCA, Beryl Women Inc, and Women’s Health Matters will all receive funding boosts to enhance their services.
- These crisis services, refuges, and specialist services for men are essential in addressing the immediate impact of domestic and family violence and ensuring the safety of individuals.
Prioritizing Behaviour Change for Perpetrators
- The Budget also focuses on funding programs for behaviour change among perpetrators, with an expansion of violence prevention programs by organizations like EveryMan.
This comprehensive approach aims to tackle domestic, family, and sexual violence from multiple angles, providing support for victims, education for frontline agencies, and intervention programs for perpetrators.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 ACT Budget demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing the pressing issue of domestic, family, and sexual violence in the region. By allocating funding to frontline services, education campaigns, and behaviour change programs, the government is taking proactive steps to create a safer environment for all residents.
FAQs
What is coercive control?
Coercive control is a pattern of controlling, coercive, and threatening behavior that can occur in domestic relationships. It is a form of psychological abuse that aims to dominate and control the victim.
How can I support victims of domestic violence in the ACT?
You can support victims of domestic violence by contacting local crisis services, donating to organizations that provide support, raising awareness about the issue, and advocating for policies that address domestic violence.