The two women endorsed as federal liberal party candidates in the Hunter Region have enthusiastically welcomed a draft national 10-year plan to end violence against women and children saying it is “unprecedented” in its breadth.
The National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022–2032 will commence from 1 July 2022 and is open for consultation until the 31st of January.
Candidates for Paterson and Shortland, Brooke Vitnell and Nell McGill are both lawyers and advocates for the safety of women and children.
Ms. McGill said she believes the new plan will prove effective in reducing violence against women and children in the Hunter Region.
“The idea of 4 pillars addressing prevention, intervention, response and recovery are important to this plan. I particularly appreciate the flexibility of the strategy and the continued involvement with the victims of violence and sexual offences,” McGill said.
“It is vital we listen to survivors of abuse to learn from their lived experience how we might combat gender-based violence. I believe that our community should participate in the consultation on the Plan so can best learn how to keep the women and children of the Hunter safe.”
“I’m grateful also that this zero tolerance strategy to all forms of violence is being led by two impressive females Senators. The fact that the entire country is welcome to put forward views is not only sensible, it will help us be more united as we plan action tactics,” she said.
McGill said that the Morrison Government’s investment of more than $2 billion to prevent, respond to family, domestic and sexual violence since 2013 was unprecedented.
“I’m proud of this herculean effort to ensure that everyone feels safe,” said McGill.
Candidate Brooke Vitnell said that Covid had led to disturbing assaults.
“Over the past two years, with isolation and social distancing from COVID-19 comes many vulnerable people in our community forced into close confines with their domestic violence perpetrators. We need to do better”
“In times of crisis and natural disasters, there is always documented rise in domestic abuse,”
Ms Vitnell added. "Whilst there are many forms of violent behaviour perpetrated against women, domestic violence and sexual assault are the most common forms of violence experienced by women in Australia and require an immediate and focused response."
Anyone may comment on the plan at the Department of Social Services website.
engage.dss.gov.au