Anthony Albanese Announces $925 Million To Address Gender-Based Violence

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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced the federal government will invest $925 million over five years to permanently establish the Leaving Home program.

It means those escaping violent situations will receive financial support, safety assessments, and referrals for further support.

Eligible recipients can access up to $5,000 in financial assistance.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, Mr Albanese said national cabinet met this morning because domestic violence was a “national crisis”.

“This is, indeed, a national crisis and it’s a national challenge and we’re facing this with a spirit of national unity,” he said.

“If we want to change this, then all of us have to take responsibility: governments, media, civil society.”

The Prime Minister said the states and territories would continue to address a range of issues in the justice system, including electronic monitoring. He said they would look to learn from each other and establish a best practice approach.

“There is a Police Minister’s meeting this Friday. The Attorneys-General’s standing meeting will discuss these issues as well and come back in the next quarter,” he said.

“One of the things that was clear as well is that jurisdictions were keen to learn off each other, to learn of best practice. What has worked? Where something has worked, let’s replicate it. Where things aren’t working, let’s change it.”

Online measures to combat male extremist views

As part of Wednesday’s announcement, Mr Albanese said measures would also be implemented to combat male extremist views.

This includes legislation to ban the creation and distribution of Deepfake pornography and serious penalties for sharing explicit material using artificial intelligence or similar technology.

The next phase of the Stop It At The Start campaign will also commence from mid-June and run through to May, 2025.

If you, or anyone you know needs help with domestic and/or family violence, there are many resources available:

1800 RESPECT: 1800 737 732
Full Stop Australia: 1800 385 578
Lifeline: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800
If you are in need of immediate assistance, call Triple Zero (000)