The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP
Minister for Social Services
Matt Smith MP
Member for Leichhardt
The Albanese Labor Government is helping more women get the help they need to safely leave violent relationships, investing over $18 million to extend the Leaving Violence Program Regional Trial in Queensland for a further 12 months.
Delivered by the Remote Area and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporation (RAATSIC), the trial will be extended until June 2027 providing tailored supports for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in Cairns and surrounding regions.
Financial insecurity remains a key barrier to women leaving a violent partner, and women should know that if they need to leave that there is financial help available for them.
The Leaving Violence Program Regional Trial is part of the national Leaving Violence Program, helping to reduce financial barriers to leaving a violent relationship, putting the choices of victim-survivors front and centre as they establish a new home free from violence.
The program provides financial support of up to $5,000, including a cash payment of up to $1,500 and the remaining funds in goods and services, as well as risk assessments, safety planning and referrals to other services.
Since 1 July 2025, the Leaving Violence Program Regional Trials across all sites have delivered over 1000 support packages, helping victim-survivors to leave violent relationships and reach safety.
The Leaving Violence Program Regional Trials will continue to have a core focus on the experiences and needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, reflecting the Government's commitment under the recently released Our Ways - Strong Ways - Our Voices: National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Plan to End Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence 2026- 2036.
Quotes attributable to the Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek:
"People often ask 'why doesn't she leave?' when what we should be asking is 'where would she go?' and 'what help is available?'.
"We want women leaving violence in regional and remote areas to know that financial support is available to them.
"By extending the Leaving Violence Program Regional Trial here in Queensland, we're making it easier for women to get culturally safe support that will help them reach safety and provide for their family."
Quotes attributable to the Member for Leichhardt, Matt Smith MP:
"Sometimes, something as simple as cost prevents a woman from leaving a violent or coercive relationship.
"By providing up to $5,000 in financial support, we are removing one of the barriers that can make women feel trapped. This funding will help women at a critical time providing them an opportunity to obtain safe accommodation, clothing or other necessities."
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit (link is external)www.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 (link is external)www.ntv.org.au
MensLine Australia Services are available if you are concerned about your wellbeing, relationships, and behaviour on 1300 789 978 or by visiting (link is external)www.mensline.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.
