Reframed Violence Against Women Collaborations 1.1

Reframed Violence Against Women Collaborations 1.1

Term

Short

Number

1.1

Our Commitment

Violence Against Women (VAW) Collaborations are multi-agency partnerships that focus on the development of local primary prevention strategies to prevent violence against women. They bring together local service providers to develop strategic regional approaches to respond to and prevent violence against women that are tailored to the specific strengths, profile and needs of a region. We will revisit the VAW Collaborations to link them with the new safety hubs as they are developed, but also to ensure that each collaboration has a strong focus on primary prevention with support from White Ribbon ambassadors and advocates and Our Watch. We will also give the collaborations a mechanism to provide feedback to government via the Chief Executives Group.

What have we achieved

The State Government's Office for Women has commenced work to reform the 10 current VAW collaborations meeting within South Australia. While work has been underway with the delivery of safety hubs, the State Government has worked with White Ribbon and other primary prevention leaders to better define the role of community partners in delivering these important activities.

What is next

We will now work towards finalising appropriate membership for these partnerships, with a focus on ensuring we involve non-traditional response partners such as businesses and sporting groups. Once these memberships are agreed and finalised, we will help develop work plans to deliver their important work.

What difference will we make

We will improve the community response to domestic, family and sexual violence and lift awareness in communities.

Employment and Leadership Strategy 1.2

Employment and Leadership Strategy 1.2

Term

Short

Number

1.2

Our Commitment

We will develop a new Employment and Leadership Strategy aimed at increasing women’s participation, with a focus on non-traditional and growth employment areas. Consultation with the business sector and other key stakeholders will be critical to the development of this strategy, with a focus on small and medium enterprises (SMEs), not-for-profits, and larger corporates.

What have we achieved

The development of a Women's Leadership and Economic Security Framework (WLESF) is underway following consultations with senior business leaders and regional leaders.

What is next

The Office for Women will lead the completion of this work, following a final round of consultations, with a focus on ensuring challenges from the COVID -19 crisis are considered and addressed.

What difference will we make

A successful Women's Leadership and Economic Security Framework will make our communities better equipped to improve participation and also build resilience.

Development of a Primary Prevention Toolkit for local government 1.3

Development of a Primary Prevention Toolkit for local government 1.3

Term

Medium

Number

1.3

Our Commitment

Based on work being piloted by the Commonwealth Government, we will continue to work with our Federal colleagues to help support the use of the tool kits to assist South Australian councils to coordinate and promote primary prevention initiatives in their local communities.

What have we achieved

As part of its strong partnership with the Australian Government, the State Government has assisted in the completion of the tool kits and is now working with councils regarding their roll out.

What is next

The State Government will continue to show leadership in this community roll out, and has encouraged State Government staff to participate with the Local Government Youth Development Network.

What difference will we make

Local Governments are often closest to their local communities and this important work, in partnership with the Australian Government, promotes primary prevention initiatives.

Expansion of Women’s Information Service (WIS) Children’s Centre’s program 1.4

Expansion of Women’s Information Service (WIS) Children’s Centre’s program 1.4

Term

Medium

Number

1.4

Our Commitment

Building on the significant success of the two pilot sites, the Women's Information Service (WIS), in partnership with the Department for Education, will expand the program to other Children’s Centres. We have seen significant success in our trial sites, with many of the former WIS volunteers moving into paid employment in a wide range of vocations after gaining valuable experience at the Children’s Centre. There is potential for our safety hubs to be associated with this work.

What have we achieved

There are now 25 Women's Information Service volunteers as part of Children's Centres at Aldinga, O'Sullivan's Beach and Parafield Gardens. Seven volunteers have moved to employment and five volunteers to further employment.

What is next

WIS-model safety hubs will be opened at Mount Barker and Gawler, following the successful model safety hub at The Haven in Murray Bridge, which had 305 client contacts before a temporary COVID-19-related closure in March.

What difference will we make

These measures all form part of a more integrated family violence sector, providing better outcomes  to keep families safe in their communities.

Ensuring government funding supports respectful representations of women and domestic violence policies 1.5

Ensuring government funding supports respectful representations of women and domestic violence policies 1.5

Term

Medium

Number

1.5

Our Commitment

We will explore options to ensure we fund organisations that represent women respectfully, as well as assisting business to support employees experiencing domestic or sexual violence.

What have we achieved

The Department for Human Services (including the Office for Women), has completed the White Ribbon Accreditation process.

What is next

Along with pursuing further opportunities as a State Government agency, DHS will be the lead agency to encourage broader public sector change.

What difference will we make

As a core partner in the fight against family, domestic and sexual violence, the State Government will continue to raise awareness across business communities.

Collaboration with REISA re Pets 2.1

Collaboration with REISA re Pets 2.1

Number

2.1

Term

Short

Our Commitment

Building on funding we provided to the RSPCA, we will work closely with the Real Estate Institute of SA to promote the benefits of renting to families with pets. We know that many women stay in violent relationships due to fear of leaving their pets behind, so making the private rental market more pet-friendly is crucial.

What have we achieved

While significantly affected by COVID-19 restrictions, the State Government continues to make progress on this important issue. The Renting with Pets campaign will soon be relaunched through social media following consultations. Work is underway to better inform real estate agents when making decisions regarding women and families with pets. The State Government has not progressed with Pet Bonds at this time.

What is next

The State Government will include Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence awareness training as requirements for new real estate agents, and continue to work with the Real Estate Institute of SA and the sector on further improvements. Pet Bonds may also be reconsidered in particular cohort-specific policy areas.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Real estate agent training 2.2

Real estate agent training 2.2

Number

2.2

Term

Short

Our Commitment

We will explore training and awareness-raising activities for real estate agents about domestic and family violence.

What have we achieved

While significantly affected by COVID-19 restrictions, the State Government continues to make progress on this important issue. The Renting with Pets campaign will soon be relaunched through social media following consultations. Work is underway to better inform real estate agents when making decisions regarding women and families with pets. The State Government has not progressed with Pet Bonds at this time.

What is next

The State Government will include Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence awareness training as requirements for new real estate agents, and continue to work with the Real Estate Institute of SA and the sector on further improvements. Pet Bonds may also be reconsidered in particular cohort-specific policy areas.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Work with providers to support women and their children with pets to access safe accommodation 2.3

Work with providers to support women and their children with pets to access safe accommodation 2.3

Action Number

2.3

Term

Short

Our Commitment

In partnership with CBS we will introduce Pet Bonds to improve the availability of private rental accommodation that permits pets.

What have we achieved

While significantly affected by COVID-19 restrictions, the State Government continues to make progress on this important issue. The Renting with Pets campaign will soon be relaunched through social media following consultations. Work is underway to better inform real estate agents when making decisions regarding women and families with pets.

What is next

The State Government will include Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence awareness training as requirements for new real estate agents, and continue to work with the Real Estate Institute of SA and the sector on further improvements. Pet Bonds may also be reconsidered in particular cohort-specific policy areas.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Early intervention in community settings 2.4

Early intervention in community settings 2.4

Number

2.4

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will develop a model for improved early intervention for women and their children, using community pathways such as Children’s Centres as well as our new safety hubs.

What have we achieved

The State Government focus has been on the delivery of the model Safety Hub, the Haven at Murray Bridge and new hubs at Mount Barker and Gawler.

What is next

The State Government will work with local staff and volunteers to develop the new model for community-based early intervention.

What difference will we make

These measures all form part of a more integrated family violence sector, providing better outcomes to keep families safe in their communities.

Perpetrator referral pathway into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) 2.5

Perpetrator referral pathway into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) 2.5

Number

2.5

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will work on a perpetrator-specific risk assessment and referral pathways into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) for those working directly with perpetrators who have no information about their partner/former partner and/or children, but are concerned about the current risk they present to their partner’s and children’s safety.

What have we achieved

This expands across many areas of service delivery, and involves cross-agency and cross-sector partnership. In 2019–20, there were 595 referrals to the Family Safety Framework and 391 Family Safety meetings across 19 SAPOL regions. We have expanded the risk assessment tool to include cohort-specific questions. There are new specific tools for young people. The tool now forms part of the online-portal assessments. Perpetrator referrals have been refreshed in these updates and all these improvements are expected to be operational later in 2020. This work by the State Government has included changing the focus to early intervention in relation to men's violence, rather than changes to the programs for perpetrators already involved with the criminal justice system. A suite of measures is underway, including funding from the State Government of $127,000 per year to Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation to deliver perpetrator responses for Aboriginal men under the Intervention Order response model.

What is next

Perpetrator-specific risk assessments and referrals will become a focus in the next stage of the FSF refresh, once the online portal is established and cohort-specific risk assessments are included in the portal process. Development of the children and young people positive action plan will also be in the next phase of the FSF refresh.

What difference will we make

Expanding the scope of the FSF will help to ensure that women and their children are easily able to access the services they need and perpetrators are held accountable for their behaviour with appropriate support to change.

See also: Perpetrator referral pathway into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) 2.6

Perpetrator referral pathway into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) 2.6

Perpetrator referral pathway into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) 2.6

Number

2.6

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will seek to strengthen Family Safety Framework (FSF) responses to perpetrators and the risk they present to women and children’s safety

What have we achieved

This expands across many areas of service delivery, and involves cross-agency and cross-sector partnership. In 2019–20, there were 595 referrals to the Family Safety Framework and 391 Family Safety meetings across 19 SAPOL regions. We have expanded the risk assessment tool to include cohort-specific questions. There are new specific tools for young people. The tool now forms part of the online-portal assessments. Perpetrator referrals have been refreshed in these updates and all these improvements are expected to be operational later in 2020. This work by the State Government has included changing the focus to early intervention in relation to men's violence, rather than changes to the programs for perpetrators already involved with the criminal justice system. A suite of measures is underway, including funding from the State Government of $127,000 per year to Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation to deliver perpetrator responses for Aboriginal men under the Intervention Order response model.

What is next

Perpetrator-specific risk assessments and referrals will become a focus in the next stage of the FSF refresh, once the online portal is established and cohort-specific risk assessments are included in the portal process. Development of the children and young people positive action plan will also be in the next phase of the FSF refresh.

What difference will we make

Expanding the scope of the FSF will help to ensure that women and their children are easily able to access the services they need and perpetrators are held accountable for their behaviour with appropriate support to change.

See also: Perpetrator referral pathway into the Family Safety Framework (FSF) 2.5

Family Safety Framework responses to children and young people 2.7

Family Safety Framework responses to children and young people 2.7

Number

2.7

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will seek to strengthen the Family Safety Framework’s response to children and young people through the release of a new Positive Action Plan template that requires the risks, needs and vulnerabilities of children and young people to be specifically outlined and addressed. We will review the representation of specific services for children and young people at the Family Safety Meetings and request the addition of representatives from services that have the capacity and ability to respond to children and young people's unique needs.

What have we achieved

This expands across many areas of service delivery, and involves cross-agency and cross-sector partnership. In 2019–20, there were 595 referrals to the Family Safety Framework and 391 Family Safety meetings across 19 SAPOL regions. We have expanded the risk assessment tool to include cohort-specific questions. There are new specific tools for young people. The tool now forms part of the online-portal assessments. Perpetrator referrals have been refreshed in these updates and all these improvements are expected to be operational later in 2020. This work by the State Government has included changing the focus to early intervention in relation to men's violence, rather than changes to the programs for perpetrators already involved with the criminal justice system. A suite of measures is underway, including funding from the State Government of $127,000 per year to Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation to deliver perpetrator responses for Aboriginal men under the Intervention Order response model.

What is next

Perpetrator-specific risk assessments and referrals will become a focus in the next stage of the FSF refresh, once the online portal is established and cohort-specific risk assessments are included in the portal process. Development of the children and young people positive action plan will also be in the next phase of the FSF refresh.

What difference will we make

Expanding the scope of the FSF will help to ensure that women and their children are easily able to access the services they need and perpetrators are held accountable for their behaviour with appropriate support to change.

Risk assessment tool 2.8

Risk assessment tool 2.8

Number

2.8

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will expand the current risk assessment tool used by government and non-government services to include cohort specific risk factors. We will work towards the use of a common risk assessment tool by service providers across the system to ensure that it is used uniformly by services within the sector.

What have we achieved

This expands across many areas of service delivery, and involves cross-agency and cross-sector partnership. In 2019–20, there were 595 referrals to the Family Safety Framework and 391 Family Safety meetings across 19 SAPOL regions. We have expanded the risk assessment tool to include cohort-specific questions. There are new specific tools for young people. The tool now forms part of the online-portal assessments. Perpetrator referrals have been refreshed in these updates and all these improvements are expected to be operational later in 2020. This work by the State Government has included changing the focus to early intervention in relation to men's violence, rather than changes to the programs for perpetrators already involved with the criminal justice system. A suite of measures is underway, including funding from the State Government of $127,000 per year to Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation to deliver perpetrator responses for Aboriginal men under the Intervention Order response model.

What is next

Perpetrator-specific risk assessments and referrals will become a focus in the next stage of the FSF refresh, once the online portal is established and cohort-specific risk assessments are included in the portal process. Development of the children and young people positive action plan will also be in the next phase of the FSF refresh.

What difference will we make

Expanding the scope of the FSF will help to ensure that women and their children are easily able to access the services they need and perpetrators are held accountable for their behaviour with appropriate support to change.

Safety hubs 2.9

Safety hubs 2.9

Number

2.9

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

Potential safety hub models and locations have been considered in consultation with women’s and community services across the state and through feedback from the Chief Executives Group. Safety hub models will be dependent on a range of in situ criteria, such as the strength of partnerships and stakeholder relationships, and the availability of services and resources. Safety hubs will provide a single point of contact for women and their children. This will ensure they can access the supports they need, and that interventions and responses are appropriate. Models may therefore range from early intervention to safety first and crisis responses. Opportunities will also be explored to integrate domestic and family violence services with child protection services. For example, the co-location of child wellbeing practitioners at safety hubs. This will enable the timely provision of integrated service delivery to families experiencing domestic and family violence while also addressing child protection concerns.

What have we achieved

The State Government has committed to nine hubs across South Australia's regions, and has also delivered funding for the Port Augusta Aboriginal Women's safety hub, the Haven at Murray Bridge, Berri safety hub, Mount Barker and Gawler, and will roll out service models at Berri, Whyalla and Limestone Coast. The Murray Bridge facility was opened in March with Mount Barker and Gawler next scheduled to open.

What is next

The Whyalla and Limestone Coast service response hubs will be delivered through Centacare Country SA and Limestone Coast DV service partners in 2020–21, along with the completed Port Augusta service and information model. The final two locations will also be investigated.

What difference will we make

Safety hubs will provide a single point of contact for women and their children to ensure they can access the supports they need, and that interventions and responses are appropriate. They will also improve access for regional communities.

Interest-free loans 2.10

Interest-free loans 2.10

Number

2.10

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will develop formal guidelines for the loans.

What have we achieved

This action is being delivered in partnership with HomeStart Finance. HomeStart is finalising work on its delivery partner.

What is next

HomeStart will launch the $5 million initiative, in partnership with the Office for Women.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

24/7 Domestic Violence Crisis Line 2.11

24/7 Domestic Violence Crisis Line 2.11

Number

2.11

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

The South Australia Housing Authority and the Office for Women are working with the operator of the Crisis Line (Women's Safety Services of South Australia) and 1800RESPECT. We are updating the crisis line service model to provide seamless 24/7 services, including a redesigned first response to women experiencing domestic and family violence. We will also work with providers to improve the connections between the Crisis Line and 1800RESPECT.

What have we achieved

The Domestic Violence Crisis Line is now funded as a 24-hour service by the State Government.  An additional $1.66 million has been committed to 2022.

What is next

Future budget announcements will be made at a later date.

What difference will we make

The Domestic Violence Crisis Line is now staffed 24 hours a day, every day, by specialised domestic violence counsellors, following the Liberal Government’s $1.66 million funding commitment to the Women’s Safety Service of SA. The extra funding means the crisis line has been able to staff their operations around the clock and means women living in violent or abusive relationships are able to access immediate, specialist support when they need help most.

Crisis accommodation – for women escaping violence and perpetrators of violence 2.12

Crisis accommodation – for women escaping violence and perpetrators of violence 2.12

Number

2.12

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

As well as our $4 million commitment to provide additional crisis accommodation facilities in both the metropolitan and regional areas, we will work towards ending the use of motels as temporary accommodation for women experiencing domestic and family violence.

What have we achieved

This action requires a multi-layered approach. The State Government led three workshops (for metropolitan, regional and Aboriginal people) and has since funded more than $650,000 to the Victim Support Service for the Staying Home, Staying Safe, program. Through the SA Housing Authority, the State Government has also delivered 40 crisis accommodation beds, including 16 in metropolitan Adelaide (8 North, 6 South), 17 in regional areas, and 9 for perpetrators.

What is next

The State Government will continue investigating policy options and initiatives and monitoring success.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Crisis accommodation – for women escaping violence and perpetrators of violence 2.13

Crisis accommodation – for women escaping violence and perpetrators of violence 2.13

Number

2.13

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will strengthen our focus on removing perpetrators of domestic, family and sexual violence from the home and explore a range of alternative accommodation options.

What have we achieved

The State Government has fast-tracked this work in a response to COVID-19 and funded significant work across the sector during the past year. Funding was provided to the Men's Referral Service, Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation and Community Transitions (OARS) for new programs and initiatives, and the Government, through the SA Housing Authority, has delivered 9 new beds for perpetrators removed from their homes.

What is next

The State Government will continue investigating policy options and initiatives and monitoring success.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

See also: Mandated perpetrator programs and accommodation expansion 3.4

Perpetrator interventions 2.14

Perpetrator interventions 2.14

Number

2.14

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will implement the South Australian Safe Practice Standards for Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Services and Interventions, to ensure consistency and accountability across services provided to perpetrators of domestic, family and sexual violence.

What have we achieved

This work by the State Government includes changing the focus to early intervention in relation to men's violence, rather than changes to the programs for perpetrators already involved with the criminal justice system. A suite of measures is underway.

What is next

The State Government has fast-tracked this work in a response to COVID-19 and funded significant work across the sector during the past year. Funding was provided to the Men's Referral Service, Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation and Community Transitions (OARS) for new programs and initiatives, and the Government, through the SA Housing Authority, has delivered 9 new beds for perpetrators removed from their homes.

What difference will we make

A state-first perpetrator intervention pilot program is now underway, with new dedicated beds open for South Australian men, with the aim of keeping their families safe and providing support for perpetrator's behaviour.

See also: Perpetrator interventions 2.15

Perpetrator interventions 2.15

Perpetrator interventions 2.15

Number

2.15

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will work with our agencies and non-government agencies to develop and strengthen service responses to perpetrators of domestic, family and sexual violence through risk assessment and referral capacity.

What have we achieved

This work by the State Government includes changing the focus to early intervention in relation to men's violence, rather than changes to the programs for perpetrators already involved with the criminal justice system. A suite of measures are underway.

What is next

The State Government has fast-tracked this work in a response to COVID-19 and funded significant work across the sector during the past year. Funding was provided to the Men's Referral Service, Kornar Winmil Yunti Aboriginal Corporation and Community Transitions (OARS) for new programs and initiatives, and the Government, through the SA Housing Authority, has delivered 9 new beds for perpetrators removed from their homes.

What difference will we make

A state-first perpetrator intervention pilot program is now underway, with new dedicated beds open for South Australian men, with the aim of keeping their families safe and providing support for perpetrator's behaviour.

See also: Perpetrator interventions 2.14

Safety first responses 2.16

Safety first responses 2.16

Number

2.16

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will work with key partners to ensure that responses to domestic, family and sexual violence are based on safety first for women, rather than housing or accommodation needs. This work is being informed by a series of forums that were held in partnership by the Office for Women and the SA Housing Authority late in 2018.

What have we achieved

This action requires a multi-layered approach. The State Government led three workshops (for metropolitan, regional and Aboriginal people) and has since funded more than $650,000 to the Victim Support Service for the Staying Home, Staying Safe, program. Through the SA Housing Authority, the State Government has also delivered 40 crisis accommodation beds, including 16 in metropolitan Adelaide (8 North, 6 South), 17 in regional areas, and 9 for perpetrators.

What is next

The State Government will continue to investigate new policy initiatives and improvements and monitor its success to promote safety-first responses for women.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Domestic violence packages 2.17

Domestic violence packages 2.17

Number

2.17

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will consider the efficacy of packages offered to women and their children experiencing violence, based on the Victorian Government’s model that provides financial assistance to women experiencing domestic and family violence for things like rent, furnishings and education.

What have we achieved

This work is ongoing and is being led by the Office For Women in the Department of Human Services.

What is next

The $1.7 million funded from the National Partnership on COVID -19 will be used as the basis for review. The Office for Women will lead data collections from service providers.

What difference will we make

These brokerage packages, for people experiencing abuse and violence, are being used to pay for immediate support including transport, safety upgrades to property, financial counselling and support for children.

National tenancy research 2.18

National tenancy research 2.18

Number

2.18

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We have commenced nationwide research into domestic violence and tenancy issues via UniSA, as part of our work in the National Housing and Homelessness Working Group and funded by the Commonwealth Government under the National Plan.

What have we achieved

This work has been completed with UniSA.

What is next

A public release has been planned. It will highlight the role that broader policy changes can play in the fight against family violence.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Child protection and domestic violence interface 2.19

Child protection and domestic violence interface 2.19

Number

2.19

Term

Medium

Our Commitment

We will work to actively ensure that our interventions for children living with domestic and family violence occur earlier, reducing the need for statutory responses. The Office for Women, specialist women’s and community services and the Department for Child Protection are currently discussing how best to achieve holistic service provision and early intervention. The Early Intervention Research Directorate, the Office for Women, the Department for Child Protection and the Department for Education will work in partnership to develop integrated models of support for vulnerable families to address overlapping child protection and domestic and family violence concerns. A new family safety program model will be trialled via a “Try, Test, Learn” initiative in the Limestone Coast region.

What have we achieved

This work is part of ongoing reform work with domestic violence services and also remains a focus of the Early Intervention Research Directorate.

What is next

Whyalla has been chosen as a trial site for a new Integrated Service System for multi-agency responses. As COVID-19 restrictions ease, the process will accelerate and be based on the principle of local co-ordination.

What difference will we make

We will improve the community response to domestic, family and sexual violence and lift awareness in communities.

Reducing re-offending 3.1

Reducing re-offending 3.1

Term

Short

Number

3.1

Our Commitment

We will continue to work on an overall reduction in re-offending, with a focus on perpetrators of domestic, family and sexual violence

What have we achieved

The State Government has undertaken and funded significant work across the sector during the past year. Funding was provided to the Men's Referral Service, KWY and Community Transitions (OARS) for new programs and initiatives, and the Government, through the SA Housing Authority, has delivered nine new beds for perpetrators to be removed from their homes.

What is next

As part of the Statewide Perpetrator Response we will entrench new procedures and policies in relation to perpetrators and improving outcomes for them and their families.

What difference will we make

Perpetrators will be held accountable for their behaviour but also have the opportunity to access services prior to becoming involved in the criminal justice system.

Awareness raising campaign 3.2

Awareness raising campaign 3.2

Term

Short

Number

3.2

Our Commitment

Based on the raft of changes to legislation, including non-lethal strangulation, we will run an awareness raising campaign for key stakeholders, developed in partnership between the Office for Women and the Attorney-General’s Department.

What have we achieved

SA Health in partnership with Yarrow Place have commenced a research project which will form part of Family Safety Framework data.

What is next

The State Government's Attorney-General Department will finalise and present possible legislative changes.

What difference will we make

As a core partner in the fight against family, domestic and sexual violence, the State Government will continue to raise awareness across the legal communities to make improvements that save lives.

Family Court and risk assessment guidelines 3.3

Family Court and risk assessment guidelines 3.3

Term

Short

Number

3.3

Our Commitment

As per the Third Action Plan of the National Plan, we will continue to work with the Commonwealth Government in reviewing and streamlining the family violence risk identification and assessment tools used within the justice system, including the family law system.

What have we achieved

While this initiaitive is led by the Australian Government, the State Government continues to play a meaningful role in improving the National Information Sharing Framework

What is next

The State Government will continue to play an important role and has also attracted funding from the Australian Government to ensure supports are provided in the Family Court through a SAPOL and Department for Child Protection officer

What difference will we make

As a core partner in the fight against family, domestic and sexual violence, the State Government will continue to raise awareness across the legal communities to make improvements that save lives.

Mandated perpetrator programs and accommodation expansion 3.4

Mandated perpetrator programs and accommodation expansion 3.4

Term

Medium

Number

3.4

Our Commitment

As well as an ongoing focus on improvements to court mandated perpetrator programs, we will explore the use of accommodation for perpetrators of domestic, family and sexual violence, in keeping with safety first principles.

What have we achieved

This action requires a multi-layered approach. The State Government led three workshops (metro, regional and Aboriginal-specific) and has since funded more than $650,000 to the Victim Support Service for the Staying Home, Staying Safe, program. Through the SA Housing Authority, the State Government has also delivered 40 crisis accommodation beds, incl 17 in regional areas, 16 in metropolitan Adelaide (eight North, six South) and nine for perpetrators.

What is next

The State Government will continue to investigate new policy initiatives and improvement to promote safety-first responses for women.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

See also: Crisis accommodation – for women escaping violence and perpetrators of violence 2.13

Mandated perpetrator programs and accommodation expansion 3.5

Mandated perpetrator programs and accommodation expansion 3.5

Term

Medium

Number

3.5

Our Commitment

We will seek to strengthen women’s safety in their own homes by building a whole of system response to perpetrators from early intervention through to justice responses that focus on perpetrator accountability and responsibility.

What have we achieved

This action requires a multi-layered approach. The State Government led three workshops (metro, regional and Aboriginal-specific) and has since funded more than $650,000 to the Victim Support Service for the Staying Home, Staying Safe, program. Through the SA Housing Authority, the State Government has also delivered 40 crisis accommodation beds, incl 17 in regional areas, 16 in metropolitan Adelaide (eight North, six South) and nine for perpetrators.

What is next

The State Government will continue to investigate new policy initiatives and improvement to promote safety-first responses for women.

What difference will we make

Housing is primary to the safety, security and independence and women and families facing violence. The State Government will continue to work will all sectors to improve understanding and awareness of these important issues.

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.6

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.6

Term

Medium

Number

3.6

Our Commitment

We will work with services to ensure responses to women and their children affected by domestic, family and sexual violence are trauma informed/based, holistic and appropriate.

What have we achieved

These four actions are on track with significant work undertaken over the past year. The Department for Human Services is producing a Child and Family Safety System Trauma Responsive Strategy which includes assessment tools and practice guidance. Information Sharing Guidelines are available online and regularly reminded to agencies. Four multi-agency meetings were undertaken in 2019/20. The implementation of practice standards are focusing on early intervention and community engagement.

What is next

As part of the Statewide Perpetrator Response we will entrench new procedures and policies in relation to perpetrators and improving outcomes for them and their families. The Multi-Agency Responses Group will continue to meet to consider whole of system matters. We have also convened the Key Partner Network to ensure that frontline services have an established communication system with Government and are able to share information more easily.

What difference will we make

Services are able to share the latest information, improve referral pathways for women and children, and better understand the Information Sharing Guidelines. Perpetrators will be held accountable for their behaviour but also have the opportunity to access services prior to becoming involved in the criminal justice system.

See also:

• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.7
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.8
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.9

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.7

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.7

Term

Medium

Number

3.7

Our Commitment

We will seek to ensure that frontline services understand their ability to share information relating to risk and safety under the Information Sharing Guidelines to assist in holistic safety planning and perpetrator accountability.

What have we achieved

These four actions are on track with significant work undertaken over the past year. The Department for Human Services is producing a Child and Family Safety System Trauma Responsive Strategy which includes assessment tools and practice guidance. Information Sharing Guidelines are available online and regularly reminded to agencies. Four multi-agency meetings were undertaken in 2019/20. The implementation of practice standards are focusing on early intervention and community engagement.

What is next

As part of the Statewide Perpetrator Response we will entrench new procedures and policies in relation to perpetrators and improving outcomes for them and their families.The Multi-Agency Responses Group will continue to meet to consider whole of system matters. We have also convened the Key Partner Network to ensure that frontline services have an established communication system with Government and are able to share information more easily.

What difference will we make

Services are able to share the latest information, improve referral pathways for women and children, and better understand the Information Sharing Guidelines. Perpetrators will be held accountable for their behaviour but also have the opportunity to access services prior to becoming involved in the criminal justice system.

See also:

• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.6
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.8
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.9

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.8

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.8

Term

Medium

Number

3.8

Our Commitment

We will convene the Multi-Agency Responses Governance Committee to address whole of system responses to both women and their children, and perpetrators of violence.

What have we achieved

These four actions are on track with significant work undertaken over the past year. The Department for Human Services is producing a Child and Family Safety System Trauma Responsive Strategy which includes assessment tools and practice guidance. Information Sharing Guidelines are available online and regularly reminded to agencies. Four multi-agency meetings were undertaken in 2019/20. The implementation of practice standards are focusing on early intervention and community engagement.

What is next

As part of the Statewide Perpetrator Response we will entrench new procedures and policies in relation to perpetrators and improving outcomes for them and their families. The Multi-Agency Responses Group will continue to meet to consider whole of system matters. We have also convened the Key Partner Network to ensure that frontline services have an established communication system with Government and are able to share information more easily.

What difference will we make

Services are able to share the latest information, improve referral pathways for women and children, and better understand the Information Sharing Guidelines. Perpetrators will be held accountable for their behaviour but also have the opportunity to access services prior to becoming involved in the criminal justice system.

See also:

• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.6
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.7
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.9

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.9

Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.9

Term

Medium

Number

3.9

Our Commitment

We will implement the South Australian Safe Practice Standards for Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Services and Interventions to ensure consistency in service delivery standards across the state.

What have we achieved

These four actions are on track with significant work undertaken over the past year. The Department for Human Services is producing a Child and Family Safety System Trauma Responsive Strategy which includes assessment tools and practice guidance. Information Sharing Guidelines are available online and regularly reminded to agencies Four multi-agency meetings were undertaken in 2019/20 The implementation of practice standards are focusing on early intervention and community engagement.

What is next

As part of the Statewide Perpetrator Response we will entrench new procedures and policies in relation to perpetrators and improving outcomes for them and their families. The Multi-Agency Responses Group will continue to meet to consider whole of system matters. We have also convened the Key Partner Network to ensure that frontline services have an established communication system with Government and are able to share information more easily.

What difference will we make

Services are able to share the latest information, improve referral pathways for women and children, and better understand the Information Sharing Guidelines. Perpetrators will be held accountable for their behaviour but also have the opportunity to access services prior to becoming involved in the criminal justice system.

See also:

• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.6
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.7
• Review of systemic responses to domestic, family and sexual violence 3.8