Every woman has a fundamental right to not only feel safe, but to be safe.
Today, National Cabinet met to discuss how Governments can strengthen measures around violence against women.
Premier Rockliff said the Tasmanian Government reaffirms its commitment to working with the Federal Government, and with states and territories, to deliver the change needed in our communities to keep women and girls safe.
“It is unacceptable that women continue to be unsafe in their homes, families and communities,” the Premier said.
“Creating real change requires a commitment by all parties to work together, and Tasmania stands ready to drive that change.
“As a nation, we need to improve the interventions and preventative measures that we know will keep people safe from violence.
“We also need leadership from the Federal Government when it comes to investment in the Action areas of the National Plan.
“Tasmania is leading the nation in its recruitment of 500 domestic violence support workers initiative, with 67 per cent of the target positions filled, compared to just 5 per cent nationwide.
“Tasmania is addressing harm from perpetrators through legislative changes, services and electronic monitoring. However, more needs to be done.
“Tasmania advocated for further support from the Commonwealth towards crisis accommodation and services to support victims of family violence, and we will continue to pursue investment in this vital area.
Minister for Women and the Prevention of Family Violence, Madeleine Ogilvie said violence against women cannot be tolerated.
“We must all work together to end violence against women and children, and I am personally devoted to leading real change for all Tasmanians.
“The Tasmanian Government has committed to over $100 million to implement the third Family Violence Action Plan to prevent and respond to family and sexual violence,” Minister Ogilvie said.
“This Plan includes a 37 per cent increase to core funding to frontline family and sexual violence services, the introduction of electronic monitoring for high-risk family violence perpetrators and the development of ARCH Centres.”
“We will also be strengthening the Respectful Relationships Education Program and advocating for its inclusion in the National School Reform Agreement.”
“The Action Plan is an important next step in ensuring that we are eliminating the attitudes and behaviours that lead to family violence, towards safer communities for all Tasmanians.”
