Australia's national domestic violence helpline has secured a major funding injection to cope with an unprecedented surge in demand that has seen requests for help increase by 3000 percent.
Record Demand Meets Critical Funding
The federal government is providing $41.8 million in additional funding to 1800RESPECT, representing a 40 percent increase to the service's current budget. This crucial investment comes as the helpline experienced more than 342,000 contacts last financial year through calls, video calls, online chats, and text messages.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek announced the funding boost, highlighting how the service has "revolutionised" crisis support since its establishment 15 years ago under the Gillard Labor government. "It was important Labor ensured the service could continue with the funding it needed as demand from people seeking help increases," Ms Plibersek stated.
Evolving Support for Changing Needs
The way victim-survivors access support has transformed significantly since 1800RESPECT began operations in 2010. In response to changing communication preferences, the service has expanded its capabilities to include SMS support and on-demand video counselling.
Since launching in late 2023, the SMS channel has been used more than 25,000 times by people seeking assistance. Similarly, the video counselling service, introduced in early 2024, has already received over 900 calls from individuals requiring support.
Minister for Women Katy Gallagher emphasized the importance of offering multiple contact methods. "We know that not everyone feels safe picking up the phone. The expansion of SMS and video counselling means women can seek support in the way that works best for them, at a time that is safest for them," she explained.
Long-term Commitment to Ending Violence
The timing of this funding announcement aligns with significant global awareness campaigns, including the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence.
This new allocation will be included in Labor's mid-year economic and fiscal outlook, bringing total funding for 1800RESPECT to $146.8 million until June 30, 2027.
Minister Gallagher stressed that ensuring 1800RESPECT can keep pace with growing demand is "critical to our efforts to end gender-based violence" in Australia. The funding will enable the service to answer "more calls, more chats, more texts and more video sessions" as need continues to rise.
Where to get help:
- 1800RESPECT: Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit 1800respect.org.au
- Men's Referral Service: 1300 766 491 or ntv.org.au (for those concerned about their behaviour)
- MensLine Australia: 1300 789 978 or mensline.org.au
- 13YARN: 13 92 76 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support
