Domestic and Family Violence

Ms HILDYARD (Reynell) (14:52): My question is to the Minister for the Status of Women. What is the state government doing to address violence against women and their children?

The Hon. Z.L. BETTISON (Ramsay—Minister for Communities and Social Inclusion, Minister for Social Housing, Minister for the Status of Women, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Minister for Youth, Minister for Volunteers) (14:52): I thank the member for Reynell for that question. I know she has a keen interest in supporting the important work that the government is undertaking to address violence against women and their children. In Australia, one in three women has experienced physical violence and almost 61 per cent had children in their care when the violence occurred. The effects of domestic and family violence can remain with victims for a lifetime and can be passed from one generation to another. Violence against women is one of the greatest threats to justice, equality and productivity.

The South Australian government continues to take strong action to address this crime. We participate in and contribute to a range of initiatives that build strong evidence to guide policy and develop effective responses to the unacceptable, high rates of domestic and family violence. One of these initiatives is ANROWS—Australia's National Research Organisation for Women's Safety. ANROWS is a national leader in the production, translation and dissemination of evidence to reduce the prevalence and effects of violence against women.

Based on domestic consultation and analysis of gaps in our knowledge about violence against women, ANROWS produced the National Research Agenda, which equips us with important information about how to protect Australian women and their children. The National Research Agenda was launched at the ANROWS inaugural conference. I was pleased to speak at the conference and engage with experienced delegates from our women's sector for whom ending violence against women and their children is a true passion and focus.

The National Research Agenda builds on the work of our women's sector and brings to fruition the state government's long-term commitment to the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children. It encourages us to explore collaborative approaches, particularly in regard to first-responder agencies and screening management. When we allow evidence to drive our responses, we become more innovative and smarter in our approach. I welcome the National Research Agenda, and I look forward to working with our women's sector to ensure that South Australian women and children live without violence.