The NSW Government has announced the expansion of its Speak Out campaign against domestic violence through a new association with the Australian Hotels Association.
As news emerges of the detrimental effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and domestic relationships, the Speak Out campaign encourages victim-survivors to call the State’s helpline for support.
Mark Speakman, Attorney General and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, said the support of the hotels industry will further the campaign’s efficacy at the time it is most needed.
“We know from victim-survivors and frontline domestic violence workers that one of the challenges during COVID-19 has been finding a safe place to seek help,” said Speakman.
“A recent Australian Institute of Criminology report also found that domestic violence had risen during the pandemic, but a large proportion of victims were not reporting to police – demonstrating the timely role this campaign can play in promoting other support services.”
The announcement took place today at the Bomaderry Hotel – one of more than 1,700 venues receiving posters this week for display in the venue, offering reassurance to potential sufferers that genuine help is close at hand.
“I want victim-survivors to know that the trained counsellors at the Domestic Violence Line are there for you. They will listen to you, they will believe you, and they will help you.”
John Green, AHA NSW director of Liquor and Policing, underlined industry’s role and reiterated that violence in the home is never acceptable.
“Hotels are part of the community and our members want it known domestic violence has absolutely no place in society.”
The Domestic Violence Line can help victim-survivors to develop a safety plan, find accommodation, including for their children, provide information about available services and advise on how best to contact police, lawyers and the courts. It is bolstered by the recent NSW and Commonwealth investment of more than $21 million to boost frontline services.
The campaign features the words “Speak Out” on the lips of assorted people, to make the point that domestic violence does not discriminate.
The NSW Domestic Violence Line (1800 65 64 63) is a free 24/7 confidential service. Interpreters are available.
More information at www.speakout.dcj.nsw.gov.au
