NCJ Number
227838
Date Published
March 2009
Length
204 pages
Annotation
This report presents a national plan for reducing violence against women and their children in Australia, as recommended by a government-designated national council, to be implemented in the years 2009-2021.
Abstract
The Plan of Action first profiles the current situation in Australia regarding violence against women and their children. The plan for sweeping recommendations between 2009 and 2021 identifies six core areas where improvement is needed, and strategies and actions are proposed for achieving recommended improvements. The core areas are called "outcome areas." One outcome area is providing women communities that are free from violence, where safe and respectful relationships can be enjoyed. A second outcome area is teaching individuals relationship skills, and a third outcome area is the provision for easily accessible and appropriate services for women in relationships that are not safe and respectful. Fourth, when the legal system must intervene on behalf of women victims of violence, they should be treated with dignity, and the perpetrator should be held accountable. Other outcome areas pertain to changing the perpetrator's behavior to prevent further violence, and ensuring that all parts of the system of preventing and addressing violence work together seamlessly. Means of achieving the outcome envisioned in each of the outcome areas are specified in the plan. The Plan of Action is implemented in 3-year segments over the period 2009-2021. This translates into a prolonged, clearly framed, and dedicated focus on the causes of sexual assault and family and domestic violence. It is intended that this intergenerational and pervasive problem will continue in a never-ending cycle. Pervading the Plan of Action are attitudinal changes in government and society, adequate funding, and training of the professionals involved in preventing and intervening to stop violence against women and their children. 22 references