Domestic Violence

Ms HILDYARD (Reynell) (14:55): My question is to the Minister for the Status of Women. Minister, how is the government supporting women affected by domestic violence to achieve their learning and personal development goals?

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) (14:55): May I pass on my thanks to the member for Reynell for this important question. I have previously spoken in this house about the effects of domestic violence, which you know can remain with victims for a lifetime and can be passed on from one generation to another.

The underlying causes of domestic violence are complex. However, there is a general understanding that gender inequality and community attitudes influence the prevalence and reporting of this crime. It is a difficult matter requiring complex and coordinated responses from government, front-line services and communities. Domestic violence is everyone's business.

I am pleased to inform the house about the women's education program funded by the Office for Women and delivered through collaboration between the Central and Limestone Coast domestic violence services and TAFE SA. The program is designed to help women affected by domestic violence to achieve both learning and personal development goals. It is an innovative way to support women to heal, improve their confidence, strive for excellence and explore their gifts and talents. Seventeen women participated and graduated from this program, and I am pleased to advise that all graduates have enrolled in further studies, including two women exploring pathways to tertiary education.

When we allow evidence to drive our responses, we become more innovative and smarter in our approach. That's why this program (the first of its kind in South Australia) was successful in improving the participants' communication skills, financial literacy and time management. The women completed their studies in a confidential learning environment, with support from a TAFE SA lecturer and a domestic violence caseworker. I congratulate the graduates and commend them for their enduring effort to take control of their futures and magnify their full potentials.

Equally as important are the flow-on benefits from this program because improving women's access to education and employment is a win for their children, their families and our state. We know that when children see their parents study, it influences them to stay at school for longer and to continue their studies. Our government understands that addressing violence against women and, indeed, gender inequality, requires much more than one-off sporadic initiatives. That's why we have committed to continue our efforts to improve women's economic status through our blueprint, Investing in Women's Futures.