The leading organisation supporting family and domestic violence victim-survivors in NSW has expressed concern that a half-billion-dollar budget commitment does not meet the urgent daily demands of an overwhelmed sector.
The state government revealed that this month’s budget will allocate funds to enhance resources for victim-survivors navigating the justice system.
Premier Chris Minns described the funding package on Monday as “a crucial investment in justice in NSW.”
The plan includes an additional $227 million over five years for government support services that assist people in accessing counselling and financial help.
Moreover, the government announced it would allocate $272 million to strengthen its frontline domestic violence services.
The premier said this budget allocation shows the government is “putting its money where its mouth is.”
The funding also provides $49 million for a hub to assist victim-survivors through the legal process, $34 million to improve the Downing Centre courts precinct, and $48 million to hire more prosecutors.
“It is undeniable that the justice system and courts can be intimidating for vulnerable individuals in some of the toughest moments of their lives,” Mr Minns said.
Concerns Over High Waitlists
The government also revealed plans to offer five-year contracts to domestic violence support services, aiming to provide “funding certainty” for organisations facing challenges.
Support services available include:
- NSW Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463
- 1800 Respect National Helpline: 1800 737 732
- Lifeline: 131 114
- Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491
- Mensline: 1300 789 978
- Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578
- Emergency services: triple-0
However, Delia Donovan, CEO of Domestic Violence NSW, welcomed the funding announcement but stressed that frontline organisations are still overwhelmed and need more support to continue operating.
“We requested a $163 million increase in baseline funding for services, which hasn’t been raised in 10 years,” she said.
Donovan highlighted that the funding won’t reduce the existing two-month waitlists.
“Demand is at 95 percent across services; people are seeking help, but waitlists remain too long.”
She added, “While some parts of the justice funding are positive, this is justice reform—not the service reform we urgently need—and that is inadequate.”
Personal Story and Additional Funding
Rhiannon Purcell, a domestic violence survivor, is fighting to extend an ADVO against her ex-husband but feels let down by NSW Police and the courts.
The budget also includes $100 million to expand prison capacity, reflecting a rise of 1,000 inmates since the current government took office.
Karen Bevan, CEO of Full Stop Australia, said the justice system funding is “absolutely critical” in helping victim-survivors recover and heal during the legal process.
“Some of the announcements today will genuinely improve the court experience for victim-survivors, which is essential,” she stated.
