Urgent Action Needed: Lengthy Waitlists for Men's Behavioural Change Programs Compromise Safety of Women and Children

The safety of women, children, and other victim-survivors is increasingly at risk due to significant delays in accessing vital behavioural change programs for violent men. These programs, deemed essential within the national 10-year plan to combat violence against women and children, are struggling to meet demand, leaving hundreds of men waiting up to five months for assistance.

According to No to Violence, which oversees the Men's Referral Service nationally, approximately 480 men are currently languishing on waitlists in New South Wales alone, with average wait times spanning three to five months. Shockingly, half of these men are still in relationships, illustrating the immediate threat posed by delays in intervention.

Phillip Ripper, CEO of No to Violence, highlights the critical nature of these programs, noting that many men seek help during moments of crisis. Tragically, instances of suicides among waitlisted men underscore the urgency of addressing these systemic gaps in service provision.

Providers like Relationships Australia NSW report a growing number of men seeking assistance voluntarily or being referred by concerned relatives or partners. However, access challenges persist, particularly in regional areas where clients face arduous journeys of up to five hours for each appointment.

Addressing these deficiencies requires significant investment, with estimates suggesting an additional $15.2 million annually would be needed to clear waitlists, expand service coverage, and enhance program quality to meet best practices.

Acknowledging these shortcomings, NSW Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Jodie Harrison commits to exploring all options during a forthcoming cabinet meeting focused on family violence initiatives. However, the urgency of the situation demands immediate action to safeguard vulnerable individuals and communities from the pervasive threat of gender-based violence.

Minister Deems Violence Against Women 'Terror' Amid Alarming Murder Rates

In the wake of a distressing report revealing a surge in murder rates linked to domestic violence, the urgency of addressing Australia's domestic violence crisis has never been more evident. Ministerial voices now echo the sentiment that violence against women constitutes nothing short of terror.

Phillip Ripper, CEO of No to Violence, highlights the chronic underfunding plaguing the family violence prevention sector, stressing its profound impact on various facets of society, including child protection and homelessness.

Adding to the urgency, No to Violence disclosed that the Magistrates Court of Victoria plans to discontinue funding for its court-mandated counselling order program effective July 1. This decision, made without clear plans for replacement, underscores systemic challenges in supporting victims and addressing perpetrator behavior effectively.

The court's rationale cites the program's limited accessibility due to stringent entry requirements, with only a fraction of those subject to family violence orders benefiting from counseling orders. Moreover, a concerning number fail to follow through with the orders, signaling a need for more tailored interventions.

For those impacted by family and domestic violence, immediate support is available through 1800RESPECT, offering confidential assistance via phone, text, or online. In emergencies, individuals are urged to contact 000 for immediate assistance.

Additionally, the Men’s Referral Service, operated by No to Violence, stands ready to provide support and guidance to men seeking help to address violent behavior. They can be reached at 1300 766 491.

Amid escalating concerns and pressing calls for action, it's imperative for communities, governments, and service providers to unite in their efforts to combat gender-based violence and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals affected.

Minister Deems Violence Against Women 'Terror' Amid Alarming Murder Rates

In the wake of a distressing report revealing a surge in murder rates linked to domestic violence, the urgency of addressing Australia's domestic violence crisis has never been more evident. Ministerial voices now echo the sentiment that violence against women constitutes nothing short of terror.

Phillip Ripper, CEO of No to Violence, highlights the chronic underfunding plaguing the family violence prevention sector, stressing its profound impact on various facets of society, including child protection and homelessness.

Adding to the urgency, No to Violence disclosed that the Magistrates Court of Victoria plans to discontinue funding for its court-mandated counselling order program effective July 1. This decision, made without clear plans for replacement, underscores systemic challenges in supporting victims and addressing perpetrator behavior effectively.

The court's rationale cites the program's limited accessibility due to stringent entry requirements, with only a fraction of those subject to family violence orders benefiting from counseling orders. Moreover, a concerning number fail to follow through with the orders, signaling a need for more tailored interventions.

For those impacted by family and domestic violence, immediate support is available through 1800RESPECT, offering confidential assistance via phone, text, or online. In emergencies, individuals are urged to contact 000 for immediate assistance.

Additionally, the Men’s Referral Service, operated by No to Violence, stands ready to provide support and guidance to men seeking help to address violent behavior. They can be reached at 1300 766 491.

Amid escalating concerns and pressing calls for action, it's imperative for communities, governments, and service providers to unite in their efforts to combat gender-based violence and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals affected.