The wait time between people applying for and accessing vital financial support via the Federal Government’s Escaping Violence Payment has been reduced from 33 days a year ago, and 28 days six months ago, to now just six business days.
While we’d like to see it reduced to almost nothing after a survivor of domestic and family violence files the application for this support, this massive reduction in waiting time is a significant win that could ultimately save lives.
The Escaping Violence Payment (EVP) provides up to $5000 in support to help survivors of domestic and family violence access and get settled into a new home. The majority of the payment is provided in the form of vouchers, while $1500 is provided in cash. The payment was first introduced under the Morrison government in late 2021 as part of a two-year trial, with the Albanese government committing to continue the program.
Previously, we reported on these lengthy wait times, noting the shocking potential consequences of this lengthy delay, with Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth stating that no child or woman experiencing violence should be forced to remain unsafe due to financial barriers.
But changes implemented by the Albanese government mean the 4,000 case backlog has been reduced to just over 700 in the 12 months up to April this year, while funding in the Federal budget will ensure the EVP program is extended until at least January 2025. The $38.6 million boost the EVP program received in the October 2022 budget has contributed significantly to this reduction in waiting time, enabling more staff to be hired along with investments in the tech infrastructure to make it happen.
On announcing the reduced wait time, Rishworth said current demand for the payments is increasing, possibly as a result of increased awareness in family and domestic violence reporting, and growing awareness of the availability of the payment.
“Having the time sped up from when you can get some work done on your case, is vitally important to ensure that women and children leaving violent situations have the confidence that they will be able to restart their lives,” she said.
Rishworth tweeted on Tuesday that one of the first meetings she took on becoming Minister for Social Services in May 2022 was about the Escaping Violence Payment program. “We don’t want anyone experiencing violence to have to choose between their safety or being able to afford the things they need to escape,” she said.
The Albanese Government has stated its plan to end domestic violence within “one generation”. While the latest Federal budget included a number of initiatives to support this work – including enabling the extension of this vital payment program – it fell short of what many in the sector are asking for — a $1 billion a year investment.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or click here.
If you are in immediate danger call 000. If you need mental health support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.