Amplifying Voices, Empowering Communities
by Vicki Kelley, Chair of Pop In Southern Highlands
In 2019, as we delved into understanding the prevalence of Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) in the Southern Highlands, we were met with a glaring lack of reliable data. The available statistics, while significant, failed to capture the true extent of this issue and its complexities.
Our journey began with conversations—engaging local community groups, family services, and agencies, including the Domestic Violence Forum Southern Highlands. Initially estimating around 1000 women and their children facing DFV annually, the reality that unfolded after opening our doors in early 2021 revealed a much graver situation.
Consider these sobering statistics:
- In 2022, 71 women fell victim to murder by a current or former partner, averaging almost 6 women per month (Recorded Crime – Victims – ABS June 2023).
- An estimated 27% of individuals, approximately 13,500 in the Wingecarribee Shire, encountered violence or abuse by a cohabiting partner (PSS Australia ABS March 2023).
- NSW reported over 37,000 Domestic Violence-related assaults from July 2022 to June 2023 (BOSCAR Recorded Crime Statistics June 2023).
- Every minute in NSW from July 2022 to June 2023, police received 3 domestic violence incidents (BOSCAR Recorded Crime Statistics June 2023).
Domestic violence knows no boundaries—it permeates cultures, age groups, and socio-economic strata. Yet, its impact intensifies in regional areas, where geographic isolation and community dynamics compound the challenges faced by survivors.
The gravity of this issue extends beyond immediate repercussions. Women enduring DFV often flee multiple times before making a final decision, while their children, exposed to such trauma, face elevated risks of emotional and social struggles.
Amidst extensive research and community consultations, Pop In's Board delineated pivotal decisions:
- Establishment of a wrap-around support hub, offering specialised case workers in a nurturing, safe, and inclusive environment for women from diverse backgrounds.
- Emphasis on community involvement, fostering education, advocacy, and empowerment to combat domestic violence.
- Adoption of an independent funding model, freeing us to adapt swiftly to evolving needs without constraints from governmental policies.
- Commitment to an agile, evidence-based approach, collaborating with researchers to continually refine our model.
Implementing these elements, Pop In has assisted over 520 women and children since opening our doors in early 2021, building to 48 women receiving intensive case work in November 2023. Notably, and confirming our reach into and support from community is the fact that 67% of clients are self-referred, and 56% sought help for the first time with us.
In a recent evaluation by the University of Wollongong, our service delivery's strengths in individualised, wrap-around support were highlighted as best practice:
“…the evaluation pointed to several elements of our service delivery that supported strong alignment with best practice, in particular the wrap around, individualised and longer term support provided by the case workers which sets Pop In apart”.
While our impact is substantial, the journey toward combating domestic violence is far from over. Education, advocacy, community engagement, and a resolute stance against tolerating abuse are crucial pillars in our strategy.
Together, let us amplify voices, empower communities, and stand unwavering against the scourge of domestic violence and abuse.
Vicki Kelley is Chair of Pop In Southern Highlands and one of the original four founding partners of Pop In Southern Highlands. Pop In provides a unique service model, completely philanthropically funded, supporting women and children navigating domestic and family violence. www.popin.org.au
01st December, 2023