The Albanese Labor Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending gender-based violence in the nation’s capital through the renewed five-year National Partnership Agreement on Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses (FDSV National Partnership).
Under the National Partnership the ACT will receive an additional $6.1 million in funding from the Commonwealth, commencing from 1 July 2025, to respond to FDSV.
This brings the total allocation of National Partnership funding to $14.6 million for the ACT since 2022.
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said the ongoing investment is crucial to meeting the goals of the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.
“Ending gender-based violence in one generation will only happen if all governments across the country work together in partnership and focus our efforts,” Minster Rishworth said.
“Longer-term funding recognises the complex, behaviour-shifting work that needs to be done, and demonstrates our shared commitment to ACT victim-survivors and the FDSV services that support them.
“Governments, providers and communities all have a role to play in building a future free from gender-based violence.”
Across all jurisdictions, the renewed National Partnership will deliver over $700 million in new, matched investments from the Commonwealth and states and territories, supporting frontline FDSV services, including specialist services for women and children impacted by FDSV, and men’s behaviour change programs.
An additional $1 million will also be utilised for an independent evaluation of the renewed FDSV National Partnership.
ACT Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Dr Marisa Paterson, highlighted the significance of the funding, stating: "The ACT Government welcomes this continued partnership with the Commonwealth and is committed to addressing this critical issue."
"This funding reflects the collaboration between the Commonwealth and ACT Governments in our shared commitment to ending gender-based violence and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community," Dr Paterson concluded.
More information on the FDSV National Partnership Agreement is available on the Federal Financial Relations website.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence, you can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services:
- Available 24/7: Call, text or online chat
- Mon-Fri, 9am - midnight AEST (except national public holidays): Video call (no appointment needed)
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au
Feeling worried or no good? Connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit www.13yarn.org.au No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn.