The Labor Government has established the permanent Leaving Violence Program with a landmark $925.2 million investment over five years, providing victim-survivors of intimate partner violence with comprehensive financial and practical support.

This program builds on the successful Escaping Violence Payment trial, which has already helped more than 45,000 Australians leave violent relationships since 2021.

Under the new program, eligible victim-survivors will receive up to $5,000 in support (inc up to $1,500 in cash and $3,500 in goods and services), along with 12 weeks of support services including safety planning and referrals to other services.

To address the issue of housing for women fleeing violence, the government has targeted significant funding toward creating safe accommodation options. This includes $100 million from the Housing Australia Future Fund for crisis and transitional housing for women and children experiencing domestic violence, and directing a $1 billion increase to the National Housing Infrastructure Facility to better support housing for women and children experiencing domestic violence. Additionally, a new $9.3 billion National Agreement on Social Housing and Homelessness doubles dedicated funding for homelessness services to $400 million annually, requiring matched funding from states and territories.

Key points:

• $925.2 million Leaving Violence Program providing up to $5,000 to victim-survivors

• Support packages include both cash assistance and practical goods/services

• $100 million for crisis accommodation from the Housing Australia Future Fund

• $1 billion targeted investment in housing infrastructure for women fleeing violence

[1] https://budget.gov.au/content/womens-statement/download/womens-budget-statement-2024-25.pdf

[2] https://www.pm.gov.au/media/helping-women-leave-violent-partner-payment

[3] https://www.9news.com.au/national/violence-against-women-crisis-national-cabinet-meeting-anthony-albanese-speaks/21a5331b-a914-4bde-a7d0-34ba3a522da5