Family violence

Since July 2006, Department of Human Services funded family violence services have been working in partnership to provide a more integrated response to family violence.

The new approach means community services work together to provide a better service to victims of family violence, reducing the incidence of family violence and increase accountability of people who use violence against family members.

The Department of Human Services is working to speed up the response to incidents of family violence, introduce 24-hour referral and support, improve case management, increase counseling and support programs, and provide a range of accommodation options.

Integrated Family Violence

In its statement Changing Lives: a new approach to family violence in Victoria the Victorian Government provides new strategies to protect women and children and reduce family violence. A significant emphasis of the strategy has been on police, justice, legal and human services working together to develop an integrated system to respond to family violence.

Private Rental Brokerage Program

The Private Rental Brokerage Program program presents an innovative, effective way to assist women and children who are leaving or have left violent situations, and who are seeking to re-establish themselves and their households in secure long term private rental accommodation.

The Service model description outlines the aims and objectives of this program. It provides guidance in the use of brokerage funds and outlines the support components of the program.

 Private Rental Brokerage Guidelines and Conditions of Funding (PDF Size 73KB, Pages 10)

Family Violence Law reforms

The Family Violence Protection Act 2008 came into force on 8 December 2008. It is an important step towards making perpetrators more accountable for their actions and offers increased protection for women and children who are victims of family violence.

The Victorian Government has launched a $1.5 million campaign to raise public awareness of family violence and the new laws in its 'ENOUGH' campaign. 

Family & Domestic Violence Outreach Services

Family and Domestic Violence Outreach services are located across Victoria and can provide information, support and referral to people experiencing family and domestic violence. Women do not need to leave their relationship to get help from Family and Domestic Violence Outreach workers however if safe accommodation is required, services are available.