Following a significant rise in victim-survivors of domestic violence seeking support for coercive control, Domestic Violence NSW (DVNSW) is calling on the NSW government for an immediate 50 per cent ($163 million) increase in baseline funding to keep up with the demand.
Coercive control has been strongly linked to intimate partner homicide, with the NSW Domestic Violence Death Review Team finding that in 97 per cent of intimate partner domestic violence homicides in NSW between 2000 and 2018 were preceded by the perpetrator using coercive and controlling behaviours, such as emotional and psychological abuse, towards the victim.
The peak body for specialist domestic and family violence services in the state, DVNSW has welcomed the success of the NSW government’s coercive control awareness campaign, with data showing that an increase in awareness has translated into a significant rise in victim-survivors seeking support for this form of abuse.
A new NSW government report shows that 1 in 2 people in NSW are now aware of coercive control, and 40 per cent of domestic violence services surveyed reported a rise in victim-survivors access support for this form of domestic violence.
“The connection between coercive control and homicide is alarming. It’s unfathomable that we’re still having to beg and plead for this 50 per cent baseline increase. The NSW Government must address this crisis in the upcoming budget. Every day without action costs lives,” said the CEO of DVNSW, Delia Donovan.
NSW continues to have one of the lowest per-capita spends on domestic violence in Australia.
And yet, last year, NSW saw a 6.5 per cent rise in domestic and family violence-related assaults, as well as a 7.6 per cent rise in intimidation, stalking and harassment.
There were also 6.9 per cent more apprehended domestic violence orders (ADVOs) and 9 per cent more breaches of ADVOs over 2023-24, compared to the year prior.
On behalf of the approximately 200 specialist domestic and family violence services it represents, DVNSW is calling on the NSW government to move beyond last year’s first step Emergency Package and invest in the sector saving lives.
“Ending violence costs money, but not investing is costing lives,” Donovan said. “We urge the NSW government to act decisively and provide the necessary funding to support the services that are saving lives every day.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au for online chat and video call services.
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 http://www.ntv.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.