NT government commits $36m a year ongoing to domestic violence programs

The Northern Territory government has confirmed record ongoing funding to tackle domestic violence, but questions remain about where exactly it will roll out.

The Northern Territory Government has confirmed record funding to tackle domestic violence, committing a $36m ongoing annual budget to address the problem.

Ahead of the election Country Liberals pledged $180m for frontline domestic violence services ahead of the election – $36m a year over the next five years.

In parliament this week, Domestic Violence Minister Robyn Cahill announced the additional investment will deliver an annual $36m budget beyond the five-year election commitment.

After months of frustrated waiting by a stretched-thin sector, it still remains unclear whether the promised funds began to roll out in January as promised.

Mrs Cahill said some of the money would go towards extending programs without funding secured beyond the end of June.

“We will be extending those programs for an additional 12 months as part of the $36m funding giving programs surety while we continue to review Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence funding to make sure we are getting the right outcomes for all Territorians,” Ms Cahill said.

“Our ongoing investment addresses sector uncertainty and looming funding deadlines for critical frontline DFSV services and programs that support victim-survivors.”

Minister Robyn Cahill announcing the expansion of the CLP's Circuit Breaker Program to Katherine at a press conference on January 9, 2025. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

One program receiving funding is the Circuit Breaker program, helping to offer holistic support for young people at risk.

Mrs Cahill defended money earmarked for domestic violence services flowing to what was ostensibly a child protection program.

“One of the things that we have absolutely recognised is that if we are going to break the cycle of domestic violence, we have to stop the behaviour before it starts,” she said.

“Circuit Breaker is a response to recommendations 7 and 15 from the (domestic violence) coronial inquiry last year, it’s about equipping families with the tools they need to make positive changes.”

Mrs Cahill said more funding allocations and budget details would be announced as part of the annual Budget process in May.

“With an 82 per cent increase in domestic violence assaults over the past eight years under Labor, status quo isn’t an option and that’s why while we will continue to evaluate and review programs, we can then make sure we are spending this money in the right areas,” she said.