$250,000 to reduce domestic violence in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex communities

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) communities in NSW will benefit from an educational campaign funded through the Australian Government’s National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010-2022.

The Minister for the Status of Women, Kate Ellis and Minister for Social Inclusion and Member for Sydney, Tanya Plibersek, today announced ACON Health Limited would benefit around $250,000 to develop resources, education and a reporting campaign for LGBTI communities in NSW.

“We know that reducing violence is something that the Government cannot do alone, which is why it is so important that we work with community organisations on the ground to promote respectful relationships and ensure that women can live lives free of violence,” Ms Ellis said.

“All forms of violence against women are unacceptable – in any community and in any culture – and it is everyone’s responsibility to reject and prevent violence.”

“These grants will support activities that prevent, respond to, and speak out against violence, change community attitudes and behaviours and encourage community responsibility to support the reduction of violence against women.”

The Australian Government has committed $3.75 million for Community Action Grants, which will be distributed amongst 17 community and sporting organisations across the country.

A range of funded projects will support different communities, with ACON working with LGBTI communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members of these communities, to develop strategies to combat domestic violence.

Ms Plibersek said she was pleased ACON would benefit from the grant as the organisation was very experienced at running attitude-change campaigns.

“I’m delighted that this investment is being made in ACON Health Limited to develop a multi-pronged approach to LGBTI domestic violence prevention in our local community.”

“By developing an education and reporting campaign on the impacts on domestic violence in LGBTI communities, we will better be able to support the victims of violence, as well as their families and friends.”

“Changing community attitudes is a long-term challenge. By working together and challenging the attitudes and behaviours that allow violence to occur, all levels of government are saying a very loud “no” to violence,” Ms Plibersek said.

ACON President Mark Orr said that domestic violence in LGBTI relationships was a significant problem.

“Research shows that over a third of gay men and lesbians have experienced violence or abuse from their partner.

“Many LGBTI victims of domestic violence are reluctant to seek help for fear of discrimination from services. Those who do seek help may encounter a lack of understanding of their relationships or their unique needs. That’s why this new funding is so vital,” Mr Orr said.

Ms Ellis and Ms Plibersek commended ACON Health Limited for its commitment to addressing this serious issue in the community, and said these grants will support them to lead and support social change.

A copy of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010-2022 is available from www.fahcsia.gov.au