For the first time the NSW Government is funding innovative NGO led programs for violent men to change their abusive behaviour towards women and children. Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Pru Goward today announced the successful tenderers who will deliver these programs.
The $5.28 million investment over three years will see the Men’s Behaviour Change Program delivered in four regions in NSW from January 2016. Ms Goward said changing the attitudes and behaviours of perpetrators is as crucial as providing assistance to victims to prevent domestic and family violence.
“These programs are designed specifically for men who want to change their behaviour and want to be accountable for their actions,” Ms Goward said.
“They put the focus back on men to take responsibility for their violent and controlling behaviours and challenge them to acknowledge the devastating impact these have on the women and children in their lives.”
The four programs, which will help engage over 1,300 men and support their partners, will be delivered by the following successful NGOs:
– BaptistCare NSW and ACT (Campbelltown)
– BaptistCare NSW and ACT (Tuggerah)
– Men and Family Centre (Lismore and Tweed Heads), and
– Kempsey Family Support Service (Coffs Harbour)
Men can either be referred through agencies such as the Men’s Referral Service by calling 1300 766 491, or self-refer to the programs which will include a mix of individual and family counselling as well as group work. Chair of Men’s Behaviour Change Network NSW Diane Coleman commended the NSW Government on the dedicated funding for Men’s Behaviour Change Programs.
“Focusing on the safety of women and children, these programs hold men accountable for their violence and provide them the opportunity to take responsibility for their actions and develop non-abusive and non-controlling behaviours of equality and respect to their current or former partners,” Ms Coleman said.
“Central to these programs is the emphasis on offering counselling, case support and referral to women and children impacted by the man’s violence.”