Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission Yearly Report to Parliament

Opened the debate

Plibersek presented the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission's yearly report and acknowledged survivors and frontline workers. Plibersek argued that the government is shifting from merely responding to violence to addressing its root causes, including online harm and cultural attitudes. Plibersek highlighted investments exceeding $4.4 billion, the permanent leaving violence payment, and the new National Risk Assessment Framework agreed by the National Cabinet. Plibersek emphasised the importance of the standalone national plan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and children, titled 'Our Ways--Strong Ways--Our Voices'. Plibersek called for collective action across all levels of government and community to prevent violence and hold perpetrators accountable.

Government response

Plibersek moved that the House take note of the Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission's yearly report and the accompanying ministerial statement. Plibersek did not provide a further substantive response to the opposition's comments before the motion was moved.

Opposition response

McIntosh argued that current systems fail to provide immediate safety and housing for women leaving violent relationships, noting that the cost of leaving exceeds available resources. McIntosh cited statistics showing 1,285 domestic violence assaults in the Penrith area in the previous year and referenced the murder of Molly Ticehurst to illustrate systemic failures. McIntosh proposed three tests for policy: ensuring women can leave with financial support, providing immediate safe accommodation, and holding perpetrators accountable rather than restricting victims. McIntosh called for greater government courage in addressing the practical barriers to safety, such as homelessness and lack of refuge beds.