The Albanese Labor Government is delivering on its commitment to increase frontline and community sector jobs for family, domestic and sexual violence support services, with funding to support the first tranche of workers now flowing to all states and territories.
Labor committed to building the frontline FDSV workforce at the last election over time and more workers will be employed over the life of the agreement.
The Federal Government will provide a total $169.4 million over four years to deliver new jobs in the women’s safety sector. A total of $14.9 million has been delivered under this first transfer of funds.
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said the Government hopes to provide support and deliver further opportunities to those in need through the new frontline jobs.
“Women’s safety remains a national priority, and these new workers will help to better support the significant number of victim-survivors experiencing violence,” Minister Rishworth said.
“We know that women experiencing violence can struggle to access support when they reach out for help.
“Every new worker employed will be able to make a difference for women experiencing violence, so this is a significant, practical step forward.”
Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Justine Elliot said the commitment for more frontline workers would help the one in four women around Australia who have experienced intimate partner violence since the age of 15.
“Our Government is committed to a future in which every person in Australia can live free from fear and violence and this investment brings us another step closer,” Assistant Minister Elliot said.
“We hope this gives those seeking help the reassurance that they will get the support they need, when they need it – no matter where they live.”
The Government has invested $2.3 billion across the October and May Budgets towards implementing the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032 and other women’s safety initiatives.
More information on the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032 is available on the Department of Social Services website.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family, domestic, or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
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.