Assistant Minister for Women, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health
Tasmanian victim-survivors of family, domestic and sexual violence will receive better support from their local GP and other primary care workers thanks to a new pilot program announced today.
Primary care is often the first place people turn to when experiencing family, domestic, sexual and gender-based violence including child sexual abuse and this pilot will help health professionals better recognise, respond to and refer survivors to specialist services.
GPs, Aboriginal Health Services and primary care workers - including receptionists, practice managers, and practice nurses - will receive training to identify and respond to family, domestic and sexual violence. They will also be more closely linked with each other, making it easier for victim-survivors to get help across the health system.
The Albanese Labor Government is funding 11 pilot programs as part of an initiative supporting the primary care response to family, domestic and sexual violence.
It also comes as the government marks the United Nations' global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence.
We know family, domestic and sexual violence disproportionately affects women. 2021-22, 1 in 4 women and 1 in 14 men had experienced violence from an intimate partner since the age of 15, and 13% of adults witnessed partner violence against a parent before the age of 15.
Primary Health Tasmania (TASPHN) has commissioned the Safer Families Centre to deliver education and training to primary care practices. It has also commissioned Engender Equality, who has partnered with Laurel House, to link and integrate support services.
The $5.4 million pilot is part of a broader package of health system measures totalling $48.7 million over four years to fund 11 pilot programs, supporting the Albanese Government's National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister White
"Family, domestic and sexual violence has devastating impacts on individuals, families and communities and disproportionately impacts women and children.
"We know that primary care is often the first point of contact for victim-survivors and we need to ensure they feel supported to respond, and that people can get the help they need from their frontline health provider.
"The effects of violence can be far reaching, affecting mental health, children's wellbeing and a person's ability to feel safe.
"This pilot will give GPs and primary care workers the training and support they need to recognise the signs of violence and link survivors to specialist services. It's about making sure victim-survivors can get safe, compassionate care from the health professionals they trust."
Quotes attributable to Member for Bass Jess Teesdale MP
"Victim-survivors deserve compassionate care and practical support when they reach out for help.
"By equipping GPs and primary care teams with the right training and stronger connections to specialist services, this pilot will make it easier for people to get the assistance they need, when they need it most.
"It's about ensuring that every point of contact in our health system can be a pathway to safety and recovery"
Quotes attributable to Senator Helen Polley
"Education around sexual violence is crucial for fostering understanding, prevention, and empathy."
"Education equips individuals with the knowledge to recognise abuse, challenge harmful attitudes, and provide appropriate support to victims.
"The Albanese Government is empowering personnel and communities to respond effectively, support, reduce stigma, and create safer environments for everyone affected by sexual violence."
