Women are being forced to wait an average of 28 business days to access the government’s $5000 Escaping Violence Payment, according to information provided during Senate Estimates this week.
The majority of the payment – $3,500 worth – is provided in the form of vouchers, while $1,500 is paid in cash.
The Escaping Violence Payment was first introduced by the Morrison government in late 2021, as part of a two-year trial. The Albanese government has continued the program.
Greens spokesperson for women, Senator Larissa Waters, said she was shocked to learn women were waiting 28 business days to receive the payment.
“Victim-survivors do not have 28 business days to decide whether to leave an abusive relationship, they need immediate support to ensure their safety,” she said.
“The fact that these payments continue to be provided as predominantly vouchers ($3,500) is patronising and cruel, adding unnecessary anxiety for women already dealing with the stress of leaving a violent situation.”
In Senate Estimates, it was confirmed that the Department of Social Services is undertaking research to determine the model of payment. This reporting is not due until June 2023.
“So that’s 28 business days for vouchers now, and at least a year before anything changes,” Senator Waters said.
The Australian Council of Trade Unions has found it takes the average victim-survivor $18,000 and 141 hours to leave an abusive relationship.
Meanwhile research has suggested up to 7,700 women a year are returning to abusive partners, while another 9,120 women are forced into homelessness after escaping violent homes.
In the Federal Budget, the Albanese government allocated $39.6 million in 2022-23 for the Escaping Violence Payment program.
If you or anyone you know needs help, please call the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).