The Allan Labor Government is investing $1.5 million to expand a program that places specialist family violence workers alongside police, strengthening frontline responses for those most at risk.
The Alexis Family Violence Response Model (Alexis-FVRM), run by the Salvation Army, has been operating across Prahran, Bayside, Morwell and Wonthaggi. With the new funding, two additional sites will be added, selected based on police recommendations.
The model embeds two specialist family violence workers within Victoria Police Family Violence Investigation Units. These workers respond immediately after serious incidents, offering coordinated support for victim-survivors, including children and young people, while engaging with perpetrators to address behaviour and reduce harm.
The program focuses on families who face complex challenges or where traditional interventions have not been effective. This includes households with repeated high-risk violence or where mental health issues and substance use add to the risks.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins said the expansion builds on efforts to improve safety and accountability. “This program has a proven track record of improving safety, holding perpetrators to account and supporting long-term behaviour change,” she said. “This investment builds on the work we’re doing across Victoria to stop family violence before it starts, support victim-survivors and keep women and children safe.”
Minister for Police Anthony Carbines said embedding specialists within police units helps ensure victims receive immediate and informed support. “Victoria Police plays a critical role in responding to family violence – having specialist workers embedded alongside officers means better support for victims from the very first call,” he said.
Salvation Army National General Manager for Family Violence and Modern Slavery, Lorrinda Hamilton, welcomed the investment, noting that evidence shows the model reduces risk and repeat violence while improving safety outcomes.
The expansion forms part of the government’s Strengthening Women’s Safety Package, which aims to improve prevention, early intervention and justice responses. It builds on the government’s broader $4.5 billion investment in addressing family violence, which includes funding more than 400 dedicated police officers across the state.
The Alexis-FVRM will continue to provide a more coordinated, compassionate and effective response for families experiencing violence, ensuring those affected can access help when they need it most.
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