Assistant Commissioner Jenna Roberts was invited to speak at the Ending Coercive Control, Family & Domestic Violence conference in Perth, Western Australia (WA), in October 2024. The conference, hosted by The Hatchery, was developed in consultation with the Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing, the Domestic Abuse and Resource Training (DART) group, and Women’s Legal Service WA. During the visit, Assistant Commissioner Roberts engaged with stakeholders in Perth and Broome to gather insights related to the objectives of the National Plan to End Violence Against Women and Children 2022–2032.
Who we engaged with
- WA Government representatives in Perth and Broome:
- Department of Communities
- WA Police
- Family and Domestic Violence Response Team WA
- Aboriginal Health Council of WA
- Council of Aboriginal Services WA
- Centre for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing
- Stopping Family Violence
- Men’s Outreach Service Aboriginal Corporation and Family Outreach Service
- Anglicare
- Kimberley Community Legal Services
What we heard
Systems and service delivery
Stakeholders expressed strong support for the reform agenda set by the WA Government but noted concerns that not all promised reforms may be delivered. A key issue raised was the instability of short-term funding cycles, with nearly unanimous calls for five-year funding agreements to ensure
service continuity. Stakeholders highlighted the unique opportunities for holistic, integrated service delivery in smaller and remote communities. They noted that breaking away from the traditional siloed ‘domains’ model—which separates prevention, early intervention, response, and healing—could enhance service coordination and effectiveness. Positive feedback was given on the WA Government-funded program that enabled tailored, locally led program design and implementation, with stakeholders advocating for its expansion through additional funding streams. Workforce shortages, particularly outside of Perth, were identified as a major barrier, affecting all sectors, including DFSV services, First Nations workers, and services for men and boys.
Sexual violence
Stakeholders highlighted significant barriers in addressing sexual violence, particularly in remote First Nations communities, where shame and stigma prevent individuals from seeking support. This lack of engagement exacerbates trauma and allows violence to persist unaddressed. Additionally, concerns were raised about harmful sexual behaviours in children aged 5 to 10, with anecdotal evidence suggesting an increase in such behaviours. Stakeholders noted the lack of available services to support affected children and families, further compounded by cultural reluctance to discuss these issues. The scarcity of sexual assault forensic and wellbeing services outside of Perth was raised as a major concern. Limited access to these services prolongs the distress of survivors and reduces the likelihood of justice and healing.
Men and boys
Stakeholders emphasised the need for a more comprehensive and diverse system of support for men and boys. Increased funding availability has enabled a broader range of organisations—such as alcohol and drug services and mental health providers—to deliver specialist DFSV services. While this expansion offers an opportunity to expand service availability, stakeholders raised concerns about quality assurance, noting the need for audits to ensure compliance with minimum service standards. Within First Nations communities, cultural connection and healing were recognised as essential elements of violence prevention and response. Some stakeholders advocated for integrating explicit violence prevention measures within healing programs, though opinions varied on how widely this approach is accepted among First Nations organisations.
Service Gaps and Systemic Challenges
Concerns were raised about delays in the physical serving of domestic violence orders in remote areas. In some instances particularly in more remote areas, significant time gaps exist between when an order is issued and when it is enforced, increasing the risk of harm for those affected. Additionally, engaging Aboriginal Medical Services was suggested as a strategy to address gaps in the specialist service system, particularly in remote First Nations communities where service accessibility remains a challenge.
We sincerely thank everyone who generously shared their time and insights with us.
October 2024
