Malcolm Turnbull has made a bold—but warmly received—move in his first major funding announcement as Australia’s 29th Prime Minister, officially announcing a $100 million package to help curb domestic violence in Australia.
Noting the 63 women who have died at the hands of a partner or family member this year already, Prime Minister Turnbull criticised the “scourge” and “disgrace” of family violence in Australia.
The package boosts previous funding provided in the 2015-2016 budget this year, allocating at least $36 million over three years in domestic violence education of “front line” workers – including police officers, doctors and social service workers.
Federal Government confirms $100 million package against domestic violence #nomore pic.twitter.com/zh4H8bjHAM
— Anna Henderson (@annajhenderson) September 23, 2015
Australian of the Year, ardent advocate against domestic violence and mother of Luke Batty—who was killed by his father in 2014—Rosie Batty spoke alongside Malcolm Turnbull and Minister For Women Michaelia Cash in Melbourne today, praising the funding boost.
“I’m really very emotional. I’ve worked really hard this year,” Rosie Batty said, “I’ve spoken at over 250 events, and reached over 50,000 people, trying to get this message across, of how serious family violence is in our society.
“We have two women a week being murdered, one in three women affected by family violence, one in four children. We finally are starting to hear from the leaders of our country that they are addressing this issue.”
.@RosieBatty1 speaks at the unveiling of a multi-million-dollar funding package to tackle domestic violence http://t.co/MJ9vTQzYOV
— ABC News (@abcnews) September 23, 2015
Batty welcomed the news, noting the shift from recycled rhetoric and political spin – to measurable action forged by the Turnbull Government.
“Not just talking the talk, but they’re [the Government] now starting to walk the walk.”
“It is very moving. We have still a long way to go. But recognising the gender issue that exists by the Prime Minister stating that we need to respect and value the contribution of women as equals, and that we have a vision of an Australia that is proud of respecting women.”
Senator Cash announced that $17 million will be directed towards the Safer At Home program; 20,000 mobile phones will also be made available to women who need access to technology, and $2 million will be put toward the men’s hotline, in a bid to encourage early intervention.
via Herald Sun.
Domestic violence is never acceptable. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, calls can be made 24 hours a day on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) to the National Sexual Assault, Family & Domestic Violence Counselling Line, or to Lifeline on 131 114.
