Increase in domestic violence on Coffs Coast focus of meeting with Tony Abbott

November 5, 2009

The need for additional funding to address an increase in domestic violence on the Coffs Coast and in the Clarence Valley was the subject of a meeting with Shadow Minister for Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs Tony Abbott today.

Mr Abbott and Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker met with representatives from Interrelate’s Community Reference Group during a visit to Coffs Harbour.

Federal MP Luke Hartsuyker said the meeting aimed to discuss a substantial rise in domestic violence related assaults in the Coffs Harbour area.

“The Mid North Coast region now ranks fourth in New South Wales for the number of domestic violence incidents.

“The latest Bureau of Crime Statistics figures reveal a 25 per cent increase in assaults but funding for services has not been increased to reflect this.

“It is essential the government funds services where the demand is greatest and it is clear that funding in the Coffs Harbour and Grafton areas falls short of what is required.

“There is a lot of evidence which shows that intensive work with perpetrators can deliver positive outcomes.

“But in the first instance we need targeted funding which delivers the necessary resources.”

Mr Hartsuyker commended the work which was being carried out by Interrelate’s Community Reference Group.

“This group involves important stakeholders involved in family law, health and social welfare work.

“These are the people who are on the ground and dealing with such issues as domestic violence on a day to day basis. They understand

“I have written to the both the Families Minister Jenny Macklin and the Attorney General Robert McClelland urging them to provide adequate funding for domestic violence services on the Coffs Coast and in the Clarence Valley.