Jenna Roberts has been appointed as the Assistant Commissioner for the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission.
A proud Aboriginal woman, Roberts will work with the Commissioner for Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence, Micaela Cronin, to engage and work alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in overseeing and reporting on the first Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan, a key element of the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children.
Roberts has had an extensive career across mental health, drug and alcohol services and the domestic, family and sexual violence sector,working in regional and rural communities.
Most recently, Roberts was the Deputy Commissioner of the Mental Health Commission of NSW, a role she held since 2018. Previously, Roberts was the CEO fo Tend Riverina (Wagga Wagga Family Support), leading domestic violence programs in the Riverina region.
“Having lived, worked and grown up in rural and regional communities, I am deeply committed to ensuring that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are at the centre of our thinking, discussions and actions to end violence against women and children,” Roberts said.
“We must shine a light on the alarming rates which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are affected by domestic, family and sexual violence – as Assistant Commissioner I will be doing just that.”
Cronin said Roberts will play a key role in ensuring that governments meet their targets to reduce the rate of violence by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children.
“We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are disproportionally affected by domestic, family and sexual violence. If we are to reduce – and ultimately end – violence against women and children then we must ensure that the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women are central to these discussions,” Cronin said.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au
Feeling worried or no good? No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn. Speak to a 13YARN Crisis Supporter, call 13 92 76. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au.