Communities and Justice

Additional investment in women's safety welcomed

18 Mar 2022

The NSW Government has welcomed the $150 million package announced today by the Commonwealth Government to invest in programs to improve women’s safety.

Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence Natalie Ward said she looks forward to working with the Commonwealth Government to deliver this package to improve women’s safety across the state.

“Today’s funding announcement ensures more victim-survivors are able to remain in their own homes, it gives women and children a place to recover, thrive and stay safe,” Mrs Ward said.

“I look forward to working with the Commonwealth on how today’s announcement could assist in the delivery of the Staying Home Leaving Violence program in NSW, which is currently being expanded state-wide to ensure more victim-survivors can stay in their homes and close to their support networks.

“It is also pleasing to see $104 million included as a technology-focused package, as we know improving e-safety is crucial in the prevention of coercive control.

“The safety of women is a shared priority between the NSW and Commonwealth governments and I look forward to working on several of the opportunities presented, including trialling the electronic monitoring of high-risk and persistent family and domestic violence offenders, based on Tasmania’s Project Vigilance.”

The Tasmanian trial of Project Vigilance showed a 76 per cent decrease in high-risk incidents, 81 per cent reduction of threats, 100 per cent decrease in reports of stalking and that 80 per cent of offenders did not reoffend in the six months after the electronic monitoring device was removed.

“Investing in a range of measures is crucial in supporting victim-survivors and I congratulate my federal counterparts for delivering this funding package,” Mrs Ward said.

The funding announced today is in addition to NSW’s existing $687 million record investment in women’s safety and the prevention of domestic and sexual violence delivered as part of the 2021/22 NSW Budget.

Last updated:

21 Mar 2022