Centrelink to tackle domestic abuse

Centrelink workers have been trained to be able to better identify signs of family violence, encourage clients to disclose personal safety concerns, and provide appropriate information and referrals.

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By Aneeka Simonis

CENTRELINK workers have been trained to spot signs of domestic abuse when dealing with welfare recipients who are seeking to change personal and financial details.
The simple question “are you safe?” is now one of the first things they will discreetly ask clients who are suspected of being at risk of violence when they present at Pakenham’s Centrelink.
For some, the question may be the first step to getting help.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) hopes the new policy will strengthen victims’ resolve to escape violence in the home by providing financial independence from their abuser, many of whom use cash control to trap their victims.
Those who are preparing leave or who have escaped a violent home will be briefed by Centrelink staff on their eligibility for specific income support including crisis payment or child support.
Staff will also be able to provide financial payments even though an at-risk family may not meet all the required criteria, and make special arrangements, such as for child support payments, to maintain victims’ safety.
Centrelink workers can now help victims connect with counselling and welfare services.
DHS general manager Hank Jongen said Centrelink has partnered with WAYSS, the Casey-Cardinia Family Violence Network and Together We Can to encourage family violence victims to link in to wider support networks.
“They have helped local customers to work out their options, including assessing their eligibility for payments, providing exemptions from some requirements, and referrals to local support services,” he said.
Control of household finances is a major factor which stops victims from leaving an abusive environment and Mr Jongen said that Centrelink had stringent processes in place.
“The department’s payment systems are secure to ensure payments go to the intended recipient,” he said.
The improved support for domestic violence victims forms part of the DHS’s Family and Domestic Violence Strategy 2016-2019.
A Centrelink spokesperson said local data on how many people in Cardinia shire had accessed crisis support or similar welfare payments in the past 12-months was not readily available.
Cardinia Shire Council recently launched its Together We Can campaign to drive down rates of abuse by changing attitudes toward women as well as raising awareness of gender equality.
Anyone who is experiencing family violence can phone the Safe Steps 24/7 Family Violence Response Centre on 1800 015 188.
The Men’s Referral Service Victoria can be reached on 1300 766 491.
Centrelink Family and Parents Line is 136 150.