The Nationals WA have announced a $75 million commitment to address family and domestic violence (FDV) across the State, focusing on delivering practical support for victim-survivors and funding to improve prevention and response efforts.
Leader Shane Love MLA said the comprehensive plan includes the creation of WA’s first independent Family and Domestic Violence Commissioner, who will oversee Government initiatives and drive meaningful change.
“This Commissioner will be a powerful, independent voice for victim-survivors, tasked with reviewing the State Government’s current approach to FDV, designing better policies, and ensuring services across police, justice, health, housing and community sectors are working together to improve outcomes,” Mr Love said.
“By making this role fiercely independent, The Nationals WA will deliver transparency and accountability to ensure every effort is being made to reduce the tragically high rates of family and domestic violence in WA.”
The Commissioner will complement the Australian Government’s Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission, but focus on local solutions tailored to Western Australian communities.
“Family and domestic violence affects people from all walks of life and every corner of WA. It demands urgent, collaborative action, and that’s exactly what this commitment delivers,” Mr Love said.
“This policy received overwhelming support at The Nationals WA State Conference, highlighting the widespread need for a fresh approach to tackling the scourge of FDV in WA.”
The Nationals WA’s plan includes targeted funding to expand and enhance family and domestic violence services, particularly in regional areas where support is often limited, including:
- $14 million over four years to establish and run a Family and Domestic Violence Commission, modelled on the Commissions in NSW, VIC and QLD and complementing the Federal Commission.
- $45 million to expand capacity at women’s refuges, including $5 million to support safe spaces in the Kimberley, with further locations to be identified across the State.
- $12 million to enhance FDV services, including outreach programs, counselling, advocacy, and support groups.
- $4 million to expand men’s intervention programs aimed at breaking the cycle of violence.
- A commitment to bolster WA Police specialist FDV teams to improve response times and outcomes.
Kimberley candidate Millie Hills welcomed the announcements, highlighting the critical need for safe spaces and support services across her region.
“Family and domestic violence doesn’t discriminate – it can happen to anyone, regardless of age, culture or community,” Ms Hills said.
“This commitment ensures women and children in the Kimberley and across WA will have more safe spaces and access to life-changing support.”
