Victims of domestic violence in the Lake Macquarie region will see the rollout of a new government initiative, aiming to bring a more coordinated response to domestic violence.
According to White Ribbon, on average one woman every week in Australia is killed by a current or former partner. Statistics also suggest domestic and family violence is the principal cause of homelessness for women and children.
Safer Pathway will commence this month. The program includes a Domestic Violence Safety Assessment Tool, a Central Referral Point, a state-wide network of Local Coordination Points, Safety Action Meetings and information sharing legislation to reduce the need for victims to retell their story.
The first Safety Action Meeting will take place at Belmont Police Station on Wednesday 21st March.
It will utilise the cooperation of Police, Health, Corrections, Family and Community Services, education and other non-government agencies.
Additionally, it will enable the sharing of information between agencies to ensure a safer and more thorough response to incidents of domestic violence, promoting safer outcomes for victims.
Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper said it is going to streamline the process of assisting victims who have already suffered significant abuse.
"For too long there has been a disconnect...we will have to see [the program] in operation, the way it has been designed I am confident people are going to get a much better outcome."
It is hoped the program will reduce complications when communicating with different agencies, taking the burden off victims and promoting more to seek help.
Those experiencing domestic violence are encouraged to ring the Domestic Violence Line for state-wide 24/7 support and help on 1800 656 463.
Additionally, it will enable the sharing of information between agencies to ensure a safer and more thorough response to incidents of domestic violence, promoting safer outcomes for victims.
Member for Lake Macquarie Greg Piper said it is going to streamline the process of assisting victims who have already suffered significant abuse.
"For too long there has been a disconnect...we will have to see [the program] in operation, the way it has been designed I am confident people are going to get a much better outcome."
It is hoped the program will reduce complications when communicating with different agencies, taking the burden off victims and promoting more to seek help.
Those experiencing domestic violence are encouraged to ring the Domestic Violence Line for state-wide 24/7 support and help on 1800 656 463.
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