Sue Lines (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I move:

That the Senate acknowledges the Federal Government's Family and Domestic Violence Strategy, but notes that;

(a) adequate supply of affordable housing options is critical in enabling women to escape domestic violence; and

(b) the Commonwealth has an integral role to play in the provision of affordable housing options.

I seek leave to make a short statement.

Gavin Marshall (Victoria, Deputy-President) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Leave is granted for one minute.

Sue Lines (WA, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Over a third of women over the age of 15 have experienced physical, psychological and/or sexual violence at the hands of a current or former partner. Homelessness advocates in Australia all agree that domestic and family violence is a significant driver of homelessness in Australia. When women flee violence, they almost invariably become poorer, and their housing conditions deteriorate as they struggle to access private rental accommodation and/or public housing, because in both cases demand is far greater than availability.

The Commonwealth has an integral role to play in the funding of support services for women flee domestic violence, and housing options are key. Analysis by Homelessness Australia found that an extra $68 million a year is required, and through this motion we request a funding allocation for that purpose, as a matter of urgency.

Question agreed to.