PSA Demands Overhaul in Domestic Violence Services
On 5th May 2026, a significant press conference will take place at noon at the Tree of Truth, located behind NSW Parliament House. This event will focus on a new approach to preventing domestic violence.
Attending the conference will be domestic violence survivors along with professionals who are emphasizing the urgent campaign led by the Public Service Association of NSW (PSA). They are advocating for domestic violence services to be managed as a core public service.
According to the PSA, these services should be fully integrated with existing public services like policing, housing, health, and child protection. This proposal arises from the inadequacies observed in the current outsourced service model.
PSA's Call for Integrated Services
Stewart Little, the General Secretary of the PSA, highlighted the ongoing crisis, stating, “Women are still being killed in their own homes. That is the most basic test of whether a system works, and right now the system is failing.”
The tragic case of young mother Molly Ticehurst, allegedly murdered by a former partner on bail, underscores the need for change. Her safety enhancements were delayed by a private provider, contributing to this tragedy.
In Australia, more than 120,000 incidents annually are domestic-violence related, accounting for over half of all assaults. Despite a large $4.7 billion expenditure by federal and state governments over five years, the PSA claims services are inconsistent and fragmented.
The PSA advocates for government-managed centers that provide comprehensive support. They commend the Mt Druitt Family Violence Service as an example of successful government intervention.
Recent efforts have aimed to reintegrate previously privatised services into government control, such as elements of child protection. These moves followed several cases of neglect and system failures.
During the press conference, more insights into the PSA’s campaign to establish these services as a core public function will be shared. For additional information, contact Tim Brunero at 0405 285 547.
Last updated: 5 May 2026, 12:06 pm
