The NSW Government has announced a roll out of 11 justice system navigators to strengthen specialist support for victim-survivors of sexual violence.
As part of the NSW Government’s Strengthening Sexual Violence Justice Responses package, $4.36 million will be invested in the specialist workers who will provide dedicated, trauma-informed support to sexual violence victim-survivors.
Backed by Commonwealth funding, the program will help more victim-survivors make informed decisions, navigate the justice process, and connect with legal and other support services, said NSW Attorney General, Michael Daley.
“This pilot is a critical next step to improve the experience of victim-survivors as they seek justice,” the Attorney General said.
“We know complainants can face significant challenges when navigating the justice system, and are determined to put in place practical, meaningful reform to ensure they can get the help they need when they need it.
“We recognise there is more to do to and are continuing to look at ways to strengthen access to justice and support for victim-survivors.”
The program is a two-year pilot that will be available in key locations in metropolitan, regional and rural NSW.
The 11 navigators will be deployed in a range of settings including community organisations, Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations, and NSW Police stations.
Five navigators will be based in community organisations selected for their expertise in supporting victim-survivors of sexual violence:
- Bullinah Aboriginal Health Services – supporting select locations in Far North Coast NSW;
- Eleanor Duncan Aboriginal Services – supporting select locations in the Central Coast;
- Full Stop Australia – supporting metropolitan Sydney;
- Mallee Family Care – supporting select locations in Far West NSW;
- Rosie’s Place – supporting select locations in Western Sydney.
Two navigators will be embedded in Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations delivering the Aboriginal Family Wellbeing and Violence Prevention program:
- Yenu Allowah Aboriginal Child & Family Centre – supporting the Mount Druitt region;
- Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service – supporting the Tamworth and Gunnedah regions.
The remaining four navigators will be embedded within Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services and co-located at the Fairfield, Belmont, Orange and Nowra NSW Police stations.
“Victim-survivors deserve access to compassionate support and a justice system which does not add to their trauma,” said NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison.
“By investing in community-based justice system navigators, it’s easier for victim-survivors to access support throughout the criminal justice process while linking them with community organisations, legal services and government agencies.”
