New $43 million partnership to tackle family violence in WA, helping community outreach, women’s refuges, and frontline services.
A new, five-year agreement between the Albanese Labor Government and the Cook Labor Government is set to make a significant impact on the fight against family and domestic violence in Western Australia. With a renewed investment of $42.975 million from the Commonwealth, the partnership will empower vital services that address gender-based violence, helping to prevent and respond to incidents of family, domestic, and sexual violence.
The funding, matched by the State Government, will support a wide range of projects aimed at those on the frontline, assisting individuals affected by violence and ensuring long-term support for recovery. This new investment increases Western Australia’s total funding since 2022 to a remarkable $110.96 million, providing sustained support in combating domestic violence.
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, stressed the importance of the agreement, noting that tackling family and domestic violence has been one of her key priorities since assuming the role. She said, “I am proud of what our government has achieved so far, and this new partnership will ensure those on the frontline continue to have the resources and support they need to help victims of violence. Whether individuals are in crisis or beginning their recovery journey, this funding will be instrumental.”
Western Australia becomes the first state to sign onto the renewed National Partnership Agreement, which aligns with the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032. Minister Rishworth added, “I’m so pleased Western Australia is the first to sign onto this new partnership agreement. We will continue working with all states and territories to ensure the safety and wellbeing of women and children, no matter their circumstances.”
WA’s Minister for the Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence, Sabine Winton, welcomed the funding, acknowledging the certainty it would bring to frontline services. “This funding will secure the continued support for our community outreach services, women’s refuges, and other frontline providers,” said Minister Winton. “I’m proud of Western Australia’s longstanding commitment to addressing domestic violence and that we are leading the way with this new agreement.”
The partnership agreement is part of a broader $700 million initiative across Australia, which includes investments from both the Commonwealth and state governments. The initiative supports specialist services for those affected by family violence, including programs for men to address violent behaviour. An independent evaluation of the programme will be conducted towards the end of the agreement.
For anyone impacted by domestic, family, or sexual violence, support is available via the National Helpline at 1800 737 732 or www.1800respect.org.au.
Also read: Domestic Violence NSW calls for urgent funding to combat crisis
Milton writes as both an occupation and a hazard. He also works on the newsletters you see on Tuesday and Thursday with articles you should find interesting.
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