From today, South Australian men at-risk of perpetrating domestic violence now have access to a new state-first service to help them break the cycle before their behaviour escalates.
The new $1.14 million Marshall Liberal Government initiative is being delivered by nationally renowned No to Violence (NTV) from staff on the ground in Adelaide for the first-time.
Following an open and competitive tender process, NTV is now providing supporting, counselling and referral pathways for South Australian men seeking support for their behaviour.
The service is also providing advice to frontline workers to respond to perpetrators and provide referrals to support, as well as support for relatives, friends and victims of DV.
In addition, NTV will be delivering a workforce development training program in SA – upskilling local services to help staff identify when their clients are perpetrators of family violence.
It forms part of the Marshall Liberal Government’s record $21 million investment in new DV measures to support at-risk women and children.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink urged men to seek support if they need it.
“The insidious scourge of domestic violence must stop,” said Minister Lensink.
“That’s why I’m urging South Australian men at-risk of perpetrating violence or abuse to seek support via our new, dedicated state-first hotline before it’s too late.
“Supporting men to take responsibility for their behaviour and change is key to breaking the cycle.”
The NTV Men’s Referral Service fielded more than 80 phone calls and webchats from South Australian clients between July and September – an increase of 112 per cent compared to the same time last year.
Assistant Minister for Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Carolyn Power said this demonstrates the importance of support for people who are recognising their abusive behaviour.
“This shows that there continues to be a high demand for this service and, hearteningly, that people are willing to reach out and take the help that’s available,” said Assistant Minister Power.
“Having No to Violence on the ground in South Australia will be invaluable for our local services who will also benefit from additional training to help support their clients.”
No to Violence Chief Executive Officer Jacqui Watt said the organisation is looking forward to strengthening roots in South Australia and offering a more localised service delivery.
“Men’s Referral Service has been operating nationally since the start of the pandemic but we are pleased to help keep more South Australian families safe with our new Adelaide office,” said Ms Watt.
“The new state-based office will look to increase interconnectivity with local sector and family safety groups across South Australia to keep men who use violence in view and ultimately, improve the safety of women and children.”
To contact the Men’s Referral Service, phone the hotline on 1300 766 491 (seven days a week) or go online to ntv.org.au/get-help.
The new office is located at an undisclosed location for security reasons.
