Funding boost for domestic family and sexual violence services

The Palaszczuk Government’s determination to end domestic, family and sexual violence continues with more than $13.2 million allocated to service providers across Queensland over the next two years.

Minister for Women, and Minister for Prevention of Domestic Violence Shannon Fentiman said this funding will support services to continue their work to address one of the most significant issues that we face as a society.

“We know our hardworking services have been overwhelmed since the pandemic,” Minister Fentiman said.

“In 2020 we were swift to respond by providing services with an immediate funding boost to help them meet the growing demand, but we know the damaging affects of COVID-19 are continuing.

“Funding for domestic, family and sexual violence prevention has significantly increased since the release of the Not Now, Not Ever report in 2015, with the Palaszczuk Government having invested over $600 million in programs, services and strategies since 2015.

“Feedback from our frontline services is that they have seen an increasing demand for their support since the pandemic began.

“And with brave survivors such as Grace Tame and Brittany Higgins speaking out, we are seeing more women come forward to report their abuse.

“We are doing everything we can to respond to that demand.”

The latest round of funding is under phase one of a new National Partnership Agreement between the Queensland Government and the Commonwealth to respond to domestic, family and sexual violence.

The Attorney-General said effects of violence against women impacts physical and mental health of victim-survivors, and their interpersonal relationships.

“This funding will enhance services that respond to victims in times of crisis to address their short-term needs, as well as those services that assist women in their long-term recovery,” she said.

“Along with funding for frontline domestic violence services we are also providing additional funding for counselling services for children dealing with the impacts of domestic and family violence, as well as support for crisis and post-crisis accommodation.

“Funding will also assist services supporting people who have experienced sexual violence as well as women’s health and wellbeing services.

“This provides services with certainty and consistency of funding moving forward.”

Further funding will be available through subsequent payments in 2022 and will be used to support innovative service delivery models, implement reforms, support the needs of diverse people and groups, enhance data and reporting, and develop projects that will align with the new National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children.

ENDS

Media contact:           Inga Williams              0439 949 719