Tasmania is stepping up its game in the fight against family violence with a series of workshops designed to enhance understanding and responses to coercive control. This week, representatives from various government and non-government organisations will come together for interactive training sessions led by the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation.
The initiative, driven by Safe at Home and Tasmania Police, focuses on recognising and responding to coercive control—an insidious form of manipulation often hidden in plain sight. These workshops aim to equip participants with the tools to identify early warning signs of such control and respond effectively.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Guy Barnett, emphasised the importance of a community-wide approach to tackling family violence. “To effectively address family violence, it requires a whole-of-community response,” Barnett stated. He highlighted the critical role of the Clarke Family’s work and expressed gratitude for their efforts in this domain.
Barnett’s comments underline the broader commitment of the Tasmanian Government under its 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. This plan aims to ensure that all Tasmanians are free from all forms of family violence. The Attorney-General acknowledged the severe impact that coercive control can have on victims, their children, and the wider community, and stressed that these workshops are vital for fostering awareness and driving necessary behavioural and cultural changes.
Minister for Police, Fire and Emergency Management, Felix Ellis, also underscored the gravity of family violence. “Family violence is an incredibly complex area of policing, and the ongoing training of our officers is absolutely essential,” Ellis remarked. The Minister highlighted that the training provided by the Small Steps 4 Hannah Foundation will help officers identify patterns of controlling behaviour, enhancing their ability to respond to all forms of family violence effectively.
The workshops will use real-life examples to explain coercive control and illustrate how these behaviours can manifest. By focusing on these interactive sessions, the initiative aims to build a comprehensive understanding among all stakeholders involved in the family violence service system.
For those impacted by family violence, assistance is available through the Safe at Home Family Violence Response and Referral Line at 1800 633 937. This helpline offers support and guidance to individuals facing such challenging circumstances.
As Tasmania continues its efforts to combat family violence, these workshops represent a significant step forward in addressing and understanding coercive control. By bringing together various sectors and enhancing the skills of those on the front lines, the state is working towards a future where all individuals can live free from violence and abuse.
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