The Victorian Government has announced new funding to expand home safety upgrades and specialist support services for victim-survivors of family violence, as part of the 2026/27 state budget.
The package includes $3.5 million to grow the Personal Safety Initiative, which helps women and children remain safely in their homes through security upgrades such as stronger doors and locks, alarms, lighting and cameras.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the approach is aimed at reducing the disruption faced by those experiencing violence.
“For those experiencing family violence, safety shouldn’t mean losing their home, stability or connections.”
The government said the program addresses a long-standing issue where victim-survivors are often forced to leave their homes to escape violence, placing added strain on housing, finances and community ties.
The expansion is expected to increase access to practical safety measures that are often out of reach due to cost, allowing more women to stay in familiar surroundings while improving their safety.
The budget also allocates $6.4 million to expand the Strengthening Women’s Safety Package, with a focus on improving access to specialist services for groups facing additional barriers.
These include multicultural and multifaith women, women on temporary visas, children and young people, older women, women leaving prison, women with disability and gender diverse Victorians.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Melissa Horne said the funding is intended to improve access to frontline services.
“We’re making specialist support services more accessible for more women and children when they need it most.”
The government said the expanded support will help victim-survivors access essentials such as food and accommodation when leaving unsafe situations, alongside longer-term assistance.
Minister for Women and Girls Gabrielle Williams said the programs aim to improve safety outcomes at home.
“Women and children must feel safe at home which is why these programs are so important.”
Victoria has positioned itself as a leader in family violence prevention and response, following reforms introduced over recent years. The government said the latest funding builds on that work, while acknowledging ongoing demand for services across the state.
“Safety must be real for every woman – support must be accessible and it must reach every woman who needs it,” the Premier said.
The measures come as family violence remains a key policy focus, with continued pressure on support services and housing availability for those seeking to leave unsafe environments.
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