The Greens say the government’s Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission is an inadequate response to the women’s safety crisis that is more about politics than it is about serious action to protect women.
Greens deputy leader and spokesperson on democracy Senator Larissa Waters said:
“The fact that this announcement was rushed out late last night just ahead of Labor’s own almost identical plan shows that this is more about optics and politics than it is about making a meaningful effort to protect women.
“Delegates at the Women’s Safety Summit could not have been clearer – affordable, accessible crisis, transitional and long-term housing is fundamental to the safety of women and children. There is a massive shortfall in housing that is preventing women escaping abuse.
“Women are being forced to choose between violence or homelessness. A new commission might win the government a couple of headlines, but it won’t put roofs over women’s heads.
“Additional funding to frontline workers and support services is always welcome, but if we are serious about ending violence against women and their children, a much bigger investment is needed. The government needs to listen to the sector and commit $12 billion to the next 12-year National Plan.”
