We welcome the Government’s announcement today about new resources to increase awareness of coercive control in our communities.

Coercive control is an insidious form of domestic violence. We have to confront it and we cannot allow victims to be isolated and left in silence. It is often a silent and isolating form of non-physical abuse that can escalate to physical violence and murder.

Resources released today include messaging for people with disability, the LGBTQIA+ community, migrant communities, indigenous communities, and older people. There are also important fact sheets on economic and financial abuse and technology-facilitated coercive control.

Shockingly, Australian Femicide Watch has confirmed over a dozen women have already been killed this year in Australia, most as a result of domestic violence.

We must never forget these figures are not just statistics, these are women, these are daughters, sisters, mothers and grandmothers and too many have already been killed just weeks into 2024.

The Opposition will continue to work with the Government on any initiative that will help address the scourge of domestic violence in Australia.

If you, or someone you know, need help, help is available:

• 1800RESPECT – National family, domestic and sexual violence support counselling service. This service is free and confidential. Available 24/7. Call: 1800 737 732
• Men’s Referral Service – For men who are concerned about their use of violence or abusive behaviours. Available 8am to 9pm (Mon–Fri); 9am to 6pm (Sat and Sun). Call: 1300 766 491