Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence

Ryan acknowledged government investments but argued that impacts are not adequately tracked and too many recommendations remain unimplemented. Ryan called for the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission to have stronger powers to compel data and ensure transparency in funding delivery. Ryan highlighted the normalisation of sexual strangulation in online spaces and supported the introduction of an opt-in model for social media algorithms to protect young people.

Cook outlined government reforms including paid family and domestic violence leave, investments in legal assistance, and measures to make the child support system safer. Cook emphasised the importance of the digital duty of care in addressing online misogyny and protecting children from harmful content. Cook highlighted recent funding for frontline services through the 500 Workers Initiative and reaffirmed the government's commitment to keeping women and children safe.

Sharkie cited statistics showing rising offender numbers and highlighted the disproportionate impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and migrants. Sharkie identified alcohol use, illicit drugs and gambling as exacerbating factors in intimate partner violence, noting correlations with major sporting events. Sharkie called for better recognition of the nexus between gambling harm and family violence and urged sporting codes to do more in advocating against abuse.

Sitou shared the story of a frontline service CEO who is also a survivor, illustrating the complex barriers women face when leaving violent relationships. Sitou highlighted the transformative impact of safe shelter on children who have witnessed violence, noting their ability to recover and behave with compassion. Sitou reiterated the government's $4.4 billion investment and commitment to supporting victims-survivors through practical measures.

Scamps criticised the influence of foreign-owned social media platforms in promoting toxic content to young men, citing studies on algorithmic exposure to misogyny. Scamps supported the government's digital duty of care announcement and the Fix Our Feeds policy to give users control over their feeds. Scamps condemned comments blaming teachers for rising misogyny and praised school leaders who actively address respectful relationships.

Ambihaipahar discussed the dual challenge of online misogyny and hidden domestic violence in culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Ambihaipahar highlighted the case of Lilie James to illustrate the dangers of digital stalking and the need for tech companies to take responsibility for algorithmic harm. Ambihaipahar emphasised the importance of culturally appropriate support services and reaching isolated women in diaspora communities.

Spender argued that Australia lacks transparency in tracking the effectiveness of violence prevention measures and urged the government to give the commissioner statutory authority to compel data. Spender criticised the current system for focusing on incidents rather than patterns of control and called for the inclusion of the family law system in government audits. Spender supported an opt-in algorithm model and emphasised the need for evidence-based outcomes rather than just funding announcements.

Cook drew on her nursing background to describe the trauma experienced by women fleeing violence and the importance of safe housing. Cook highlighted government investments including the leaving violence payment, paid leave and emergency accommodation funding. Cook shared a testimonial from a woman who found safety in social housing, illustrating the positive impact of government support on rebuilding lives.

Steggall criticised the government for insufficient urgency and funding relative to the scale of the crisis, comparing domestic violence spending to defence budgets. Steggall argued that short-term funding agreements create uncertainty for frontline services and that the government fails to provide a consolidated picture of national investment. Steggall called for immediate implementation of existing recommendations and greater accountability for outcomes.