The Federal Government is rolling out extra measures to ensure people experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence know where to get help during the coronavirus pandemic.
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The Help is Here campaign will include advertising across television, digital, social media, radio, magazines and newspapers as well as in shopping centres, hospitals and GP surgeries.
Calare MP and Minister for Decentralisation and Regional Education Andrew Gee, said the campaign is important in protecting such a vulnerable cohort of the community.
"Central West residents have responded to the call to 'stay at home' during COVID-19," said Mr Gee.
"It's devastating that home is not a safe place for some, so this campaign will raise awareness of the support available for people who need help.
Those suffering from, at risk of domestic violence or of inflicting it are encouraged to call either of the two national helplines - 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or MensLine Australia (1300 789 978) to speak with a trained counsellor, confidentially, 24 hours a day, over the phone or via online chat.
"It's critical that we do everything that we can to stop the cycle of domestic violence, and these resources are in place to help anyone who feels at risk, either as a victim, or perpetrator," said Mr Gee.
Since the pandemic began more than 15 per cent of contacts for MensLine Australia have been COVID-19 specific, while 1800RESPECT has seen an 11 per cent increase in people accessing support compared to the same time last year.
These national services are available and accessible to all people located in Australia, including those on temporary visas, as well as people with disability.
Further information is available at www.australia.gov.au/dvsupport
