Statement on joint funding to strengthen responses to family, domestic and sexual violence

Safe and Equal welcomes the joint funding announced today by the Federal and Victorian Governments to strengthen responses to family, domestic and sexual violence. 

We especially welcome the increased focus on, and investment in, tailored services for children and young people, who face unique and significant challenges in accessing support as victim survivors in their own right.  

Family violence is the leading driver of homelessness for women and children and we’re pleased to see this acknowledged in today’s announcement, with an investment in crisis responses and safer accommodation options. Safety and shelter are fundamental human rights, and one should never come at the expense of the other. 

While today’s announcement is incredibly welcome and desperately needed, much more must be done to ensure everyone experiencing family violence can access the support they need, when they need it. Ultimately, we must also see determined action to ensure that this violence is a thing of the past. Too many lives depend on it. 

Family violence is not inevitable; it is shaped by the choices we make – especially the extent to which our leaders prioritise investment in prevention and response. We thank the Commonwealth and Victorian governments for today’s announcement as another step forward. But we know much more must be done. 

We must see all levels of government treat and respond to family and gender-based violence as the significant and escalating crisis that it is. And the specialist family violence sector stands ready to accelerate and sustain our work with your support. 

For more information on today’s announcement here.

 

About Safe and Equal 

Safe and Equal is the peak body for Victorian organisations that specialise in family and gender-based violence across the continuum, including primary prevention, early intervention, response and recovery. Our vision is a world where everyone is safe, respected and thriving, living free from family and gender-based violence. 

Media contact

Stephanie Jones, Communications Manager

media@safeandequal.org.au

03 9921 0897