No to Violence welcomes funding boost

emotional wellbeing

The NSW Government has announced $21 million to boost the family violence sector.

No to Violence, Australia’s largest peak body for delivering safe and effective interventions for men who use violence and Men’s Referral Service provider has welcomed the announcement, which includes $3 million for organisations that work with men who use violence.

“Family violence begins – and ends – with men,” says CEO Jacqui Watt.

“If we don’t effectively engage and intervene with men who use family violence, we will never be able to keep women and children safe.

“That’s why today’s announcement of an additional $3 million by Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Mark Speakman is so vital.

“The social and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic are only just starting. We know family violence rates will increase as we feel the impact of unemployment and other social and economic challenges.”

Ms Watt says the message to men who are about to use violence is to stop, pick up the phone, and call the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or go online at ntv.org.au.

“It is a free, confidential service that can help you to be the man you want to be.”

Minister Speakman says he is pleased to support the important work of No to Violence as part of today’s comprehensive funding announcement for frontline domestic violence services.

“Men’s behaviour change and early intervention are so important if we are going to shift the dial of domestic and family violence in NSW,” says Mr Speakman.