THE Orana region was responsible for more than four per cent of the state’s recorded domestic violence related assaults in the twelve months to June 2015, despite being home to just 1.5 per cent of its population.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
There were 1,258 recorded domestic violence related assaults across the region in 2014-15 according to the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR), with 28,939 recorded incidents across the state.
The region is home to eight of the state’s worst local government areas for the crime, with Bourke and Walgett coming in first and second respectively.
Parkes MP Mark Coulton said he is “not proud that many of the towns that have been mentioned as having those high rates of domestic violence are in my electorate”.
Dubbo was ranked 12th in the state with 361 recorded domestic violence related assaults, and Mr Coulton welcomed attorney-general George Brandis’ weekend announcement that the Dubbo region would receive a share of $15 million to increase access to legal services for victims of domestic violence.
A total of 12 ‘specialist domestic violence units’ will be established across the state, with five health justice partnerships also set to receive a share of the $15 million.
“I’ve got a double reaction I guess. I’m pleased that we’re putting the money where it is needed, but I’m sorry that it is needed,” Mr Coulton said.
“To have these bullies that are physically, verbally and financially abusing people is abhorrent and these people need to realise that they are pariahs.
“I think we need to end up with a culture where any kind of family violence is unacceptable. There’s no justification for hitting someone.”
It is still unclear when the specialist unit will open, or how much of the $15 million in funding will be allocated to the Dubbo service.
A spokesperson for the attorney-general told the Daily Liberal more details would be announced in the coming weeks.
“The specialist domestic violence units will provide wrap-around support to women, taking a case management approach to ensure that services are tailored to each woman’s circumstances,” the spokesperson said.
“The units will offer expert legal advice to help women protect themselves and their children, and will help women access other services such as crisis accommodation, counselling and financial advice.
“These services will be established by existing legal assistance providers with a strong track record.”
