A round-the-clock helpline for victims of family violence in Canberra is facing a significant reduction in service hours, according to the chief executive of the Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS), Sue Webeck. Effective from July 1, 2023, the service risks losing its 24/7 capacity due to a funding cut of 20 percent resulting from an ongoing contracting process with the ACT government. This situation has prompted Webeck to describe the potential changes as “devastating.”
Webeck highlighted that the helpline is currently unable to answer half of the incoming calls. The DVCS provides vital support not only to victims of family violence but also to professionals such as police and court staff seeking assistance on behalf of affected individuals. “We can’t actually identify or triage missed calls because we don’t know who those callers are. They’re not leaving a voicemail,” Webeck explained. She emphasized that the nature of domestic violence means that the need for support does not adhere to a schedule, stating, “It’s not like we can put out a press release and say, ‘Domestic and family violence, please don’t do that between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m.'”
The urgency of the situation is underscored by rising reports of domestic violence incidents. The ACT Policing has indicated an increase in calls related to family violence, from 11 calls per day in the 2023-24 period to 12 calls per day in 2024-25. This uptick reflects a broader trend of escalating demand for support services.
Sue Webeck expressed her grave concern that the funding cuts could leave vulnerable individuals at greater risk. She articulated the challenges faced by the DVCS, including the diverse needs of callers, which range from information and advice to emergency accommodation and financial assistance. “A day on the DVCS crisis line can look like responding to a variety of needs, on the phone and in person,” Webeck noted.
While government officials like Marisa Paterson, the Minister for Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence, acknowledge the increase in demand, criticisms have surfaced regarding the adequacy of funding to meet these needs. Webeck pointed out the complacency within the government’s approach to tackling family violence, stating, “We talk about increase in demand, we talk about it being unacceptable… But where’s the funding?”
The ramifications of reduced service hours could be profound. Webeck warned that the DVCS might be forced to leave individuals in precarious situations without the help they need. “Sometimes to do this work and to feel like you are letting down the community at every turn, it’s easier to work with the reality of what is rather than the hope of what our community needs,” she remarked.
In response to concerns, Paterson assured that the government will not abandon the DVCS. “We will not be cutting this important funding. While further work will continue through the budget process, interim cost pressures will be addressed,” she stated. The government has committed to maintaining contact with the DVCS to ensure its operational capacity is not compromised.
As the situation develops, the community remains vigilant about the impact of these changes. The DVCS plays a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of individuals affected by domestic violence, and any reduction in its capacity could have dire consequences for many.
For those in need of immediate support, help is available. Individuals can contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or the Domestic Violence Crisis Service at 02 6280 0900 for assistance.
