- Forensic pilot program supports police and prosecutors to secure FDV convictions
- More than 141 referrals and 62 forensic examinations since launch
- $300,000 in additional funding committed to the pilot to meet growing demand
- Cook Government investment helping to protect the community
The Cook Government has announced an uplift in funding for the Family and Domestic Violence pilot program following early success and support from victim-survivors.
Launched in September 2023, the pilot delivers trauma-informed forensic and support services to victim-survivors of serious FDV, helping improve health outcomes and strengthen the criminal justice response.
The partnership between the Department of Justice, the Department of Health and the Zonta House Refuge Association has delivered support services to more than 125 people to date, with 56 forensic examinations and 26 medico-legal reports completed.
The service is enhancing WA's FDV response by providing high-quality forensic evidence that has been crucial in securing convictions while ensuring victim-survivors feel safe and supported.
Announced during the 16 Days in WA campaign and to meet the growing demand for the service, the Department of Justice has committed an additional $300,000 to extend the pilot through 2025-26.
Operating from a purpose-built facility at King Edward Memorial Hospital, the service now accepts referrals from prosecutors and police enabling more victim-survivors to access comprehensive forensic assessments and support through the justice process.
As stated by Attorney General Dr Tony Buti:
"This pilot is transforming how we work to end family and domestic violence in Western Australia as part of the Cook Government's priority to build safe communities.
"It's delivering justice, safety and dignity for survivors while helping hold perpetrators to account.
"We're proud to invest in a service that is saving lives, securing convictions and setting a new standard for trauma-informed care."
As stated by Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Jessica Stojkovski:
"Victims of crime who access this service can be reassured they will receive the best support, health care and protection available and the strongest chance of seeing justice served.
"Having the Sexual Assault Resource Centre's experienced staff involved ensures victims are treated with compassion and receive the highest level of care for their physical and emotional recovery.
"Importantly, the program puts the needs of victim-survivors first, with Zonta House providing risk assessment, support, safety planning for families and assistance with navigating the justice system."
As stated by Health Minister Meredith Hammat:
"Ensuring survivors of family and domestic violence have access to timely, high-quality forensic examinations is absolutely critical to their wellbeing, as well as the work our government is doing to end domestic violence.
"The Sexual Assault Resource Centre is staffed by a highly trained and dedicated workforce who are on hand to ensure survivors get the support they need."
