Canberra, Nov 25 – The Australian government announced on Tuesday a nearly 40 percent increase in funding for the national domestic, family and sexual‑violence support service, responding to a clear rise in demand for help.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek, Women’s Minister Katy Gallagher and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Ged Kearney revealed an extra 41.8 million Australian dollars (about 27.03 million US dollars) to broaden the reach of 1800RESPECT. The service, which offers free information, counselling and support to those affected by domestic, family or sexual abuse, will now receive a total of 146.8 million Australian dollars until 30 June 2027.
Since its launch in 2010, 1800RESPECT has seen contacts rise by more than 3,000 percent. In the twelve months ending June 2025, it handled over 342,000 calls, video chats, online chats and text messages—a figure that is expected to grow as more people recognize the signs of violence and seek assistance.
The ministers noted that the extra funding will help the service continue providing trauma‑informed and accessible support for those experiencing family, domestic or sexual violence. The announcement was timed to coincide with the United Nations’ International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in six Australian women and one in 18 Australian men have suffered physical or sexual violence from a current or former cohabiting partner since the age of 15. In 2023, family and domestic‑violence incidents made up 55 percent of all recorded assaults in the country, and 43 percent of recorded murders were linked to such violence.
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