Government Pledges Permanent Funding to Combat Violence Against Women
The Australian government has pledged permanent funding for the Leaving Violence Program, supporting victim-survivors escaping violence. This commitment comes amidst a national crisis of gendered violence, with at least 28 women killed this year.
Prime Minister Albanese acknowledged the severity of the issue, calling for a national response with shared responsibility. He emphasized that ending violence against women is not solely a women's issue, but a societal problem that demands collective action, particularly from men.
The Leaving Violence Program will provide eligible victim-survivors with individualized financial support packages, safety planning, risk assessments, and referrals to essential services for up to 12 weeks. This program aims to empower individuals to leave violent relationships by addressing the financial insecurity that often hinders their escape.
Online Measures to Tackle Misogyny and Protect Children
The government also announced online measures to combat misogyny and protect children from harmful content. A pilot program will explore age verification technology to restrict children's access to pornography and address online misogyny.
Additionally, legislation will be introduced to ban the creation and non-consensual distribution of deepfake pornography.
Collaboration and Information Sharing to Prevent Homicides
State and territory leaders agreed on the need to strengthen response systems and focus on high-risk perpetrators and serial offenders to prevent homicides. They emphasized the importance of collaboration across different governments and jurisdictions, including intelligence sharing.
Ongoing Commitment and National Plan Review
National Domestic and Family Violence Commissioner, Ms. Kate Jenkins, welcomed the government's commitment and emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance and adaptation. She stressed that the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children should not be a static document but rather a dynamic framework that evolves with emerging challenges and technological advancements.
The upcoming roundtable discussion in Canberra will bring together researchers, law enforcement officials, legal professionals, service providers, and individuals with lived experience of domestic and family violence to further refine and strengthen the national response.