10 May, 2024

The Labor Government’s $925 million Leaving Violence Program (LVP) announced last week, is intended to provide support to women escaping domestic violence situations, as part of the Labor

Government’s National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-32.

The National Plan aims to end violence in one generation, and though extensive, is far from being fully realised. This opens the door for organisations in our sector to play key roles in its delivery.

The Labor Government has identified involving key services and organisations as a key part of the national strategy, making clear the opportunity for purpose-led organisations to get involved.

If your organisation believes it has a role in the future of supporting victims of domestic violence, you must ensure your value proposition reaches the ears of parliament.

 

Where is the opportunity for partnership?

 

There are several aspects of the National Plan that require support from relevant organisations.

The LVP is set to replace the Escaping Violence Payment (EVP), established in 2021 under a two-year trial. An evaluation of the EVP released in May 2023, has given us valuable insights into the issues the Labor Government will have addressing the new initiative, and the role external organisations could play in those changes.

As noted in the evaluation, it’s unclear whether the EVP has been reaching people with disabilities and LGBTQIA+. People from culturally and linguistically diverse communities and older Australians were also underrepresented in the program’s reach. This means that further work is required to ensure that the service is accessible and inclusive, and stakeholder consultation will be critical in this work.

A lack of consultation with the women’s safety sector and other relevant services was a key criticism of the previous program, which led to a poor initial experience accessing the service for many women. This will have to be addressed by the government with respect to the LVP.

Additionally, there is an important role for services outside the specialist women’s safety sector, such as child and family services, to help increase awareness of the program.

The potential for individuals to access the LVP via their existing support services is also an avenue the government will be having a hard look at, as this was identified as a significant shortcoming of the previous EVP program.

Whether your organisation addresses women’s safety, mental health, or accessibility, it is likely the National Plan has room for your input and it is essential you position yourself correctly to be there when the government requires your services.

 

So how can you align yourself with the Government’s plans?

 

Engaging government is all about knowing who your key stakeholders are and establishing key relationships that are sustained over long periods of time.

Consider who the key decision makers are regarding the services and programs related to your organisation, and target your communications to reach them.

Once you have made contact with selected parliamentarians however, you cannot expect results without continuing contact. Consistently engaging over months and longer  will ensure that stakeholders consider your organisation when making key decisions.

 

Fifty Acres would be delighted to discuss how your organisation can engage with key government stakeholders.