State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, will today move a Notice of Motion in the NSW Parliament calling on the Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence to increase funding for counselling, services and shelters for male victims of domestic violence.
Ms Hornery will move the Motion following increased calls from male victims of domestic violence who have contacted her office who have been unable to access appropriate services across the Hunter.
A recent announcement by the Government that funding will be provided to domestic services across NSW should be increased to ensure adequate services are provided to male victims.
“Domestic violence is the same, whether it happens to men, women or children,” Ms Hornery said.
“It doesn’t matter if you are in a same-sex relationship or part of any culture, ethnic group or religion. Abusive relationships can happen between parents and children, partners or even between brothers and sisters.
“There are very few places that male victims of domestic violence can access crucial support.
“There has been an increasing number of calls to my office by men who have been the victim of domestic violence who simply cannot access services and are often left with no choice but to remain with their abuser.
“This week the Government announced an increase in funding to double the number of refuges for women escaping domestic violence which is very much needed and long overdue.
“Male victims of abuse would like to see an increase in funding for services that they can access in addition to this, so that they too can access emergency accommodation and specialist services.
“Everyone should be able to access essential services in their time of need,” Ms Hornery said.