Family violence advocacy and support services expands to Mildura

Improved family violence support has rolled out in the northern Victorian region as reported incidents soar.

Mildura residents experiencing domestic violence now have access to improved support systems as family violence incidents soar.

With more than 1900 family violence incidents recorded in Mildura in the year ending June 2022, an increase of more than 20 per cent from the previous year, the need for domestic violence support has never been greater.

Victoria Legal Aid’s regional manager for the Mallee, Heidi Deason, said there was a crucial need for more support programs to address the issue.

She said there was definitely “a need” for programs like the Family Advocacy and Support Service, which rolled out to the region this week.

“I think there is a need for this across the state, but for the Mallee our family violence statistics are really high... there is a need for providing legal services in combination with the supports that people are likely to need,” she said.

The rollout is part of an $85M boost to the program so it can expand into all nine Federal Circuit and Family Court districts in Victoria.

Ms Deason said the program would help to support families and individuals going through the family court system.

Domestic violence impacts women more than men but both need support services.

A lawyer has started work in the region and is placed to provide legal advice in the area of family law and provide representation to those who are eligible.

The service also aims to provide more complete support to people experiencing family violence.

“[The] FASS program isn’t just about that legal need, it’s about providing that wraparound support that people often need when is there a family violence crisis situation,” Ms Deason said.

To do this FASS is partnering with Mallee Family Care Ltd Community Legal Centre, Mallee Sexual Assault Unit and Domestic Violence Service, and Relationships Australia Victoria.

Relationships Australia Victoria chief executive, Dr Andrew Bickerdike, said early wraparound support and early intervention was important.

“We know that earlier intervention and wraparound specialist services like the ones we deliver have a positive impact on mental health, addressing suicidal ideation and promoting safe and healthy relationships,” he said.

More information about the FASS program can be found at familyviolencelaw.gov.au.

Need help? ■ 24hr Emergency Accommodation helpline: 1800 800 588 ■ Safe At Home helpline: 1800 633 937 ■ SHE (free and confidential counselling and support): 6278 9090 ■ Sexual Assault Support Services: 6231 1811, A/H 6231 1817 ■ Family Violence Crisis and Support Service: 1800 608 122 ■ Bravehearts – Sexual Assault Support for children: 1800 BRAVE 1 ■ National Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Counselling Service 24hr helpline: 1800 RESPECT ■ Lifeline: 13 1144 ■ Emergency/Police: 000