The Hunter Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Consortium will benefit from $345,000 to strengthen the region’s response to technology-facilitated abuse (TFA).
Over the next two years, the group – which incorporates Family Support Newcastle, Nova for Women and Children, Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services, Got Your Back Sista, Jenny’s Place, Warlga Ngurra, Upper Hunter Homeless Support and Carries Place – is expected to partner with WorkVentures, thanks to funding from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation (NPCF).
Together, they’ll develop a digital app, online learning modules and face-to-face workshops aimed at supporting frontline DFV workers across the Hunter to better identify, respond to and support those experiencing TFA.
Family Support Newcastle CEO and a member of the Hunter DFV Consortium Lauren Fisher said the initiative demonstrated the impact of regional collaboration in addressing emerging challenges in the sector.
“This project is informed by the experiences of frontline DFV workers and designed to equip them with resources and training to better support clients experiencing technology-facilitated abuse,” she explained.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation for investing in this collaborative, regionally-driven response to TFA.”
The latest funding marks the second phase of the program after the Hunter DFV Consortium and WorkVentures created a downloadable playbook.
The next stage will be informed by ongoing consultation and feedback from frontline DFV workers to ensure the resources and training remain practical, relevant and responsive to emerging forms of abuse.
WorkVentures CEO Caroline McDaid stated it responded to a critical need within the DFV sector.
“With more than 40% of DFV caseworkers reporting they lack the skills or knowledge to effectively support clients experiencing technology-facilitated abuse, initiatives like this have never been more important,” she said.
“Developing an app-based platform will increase access to practical tools, training and support for those responding to a rapidly evolving threat.”
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