A new report recommends more support for women on temporary visas experiencing violence
Oz Kiwi opinion
It can be particularly difficult for temporary visa-holders to leave a violent relationship. They struggle financially without access to government support, and are unable to access crisis accommodation and support agencies that receive government funding.
A women on a temporary partner visa, such as the 461 visa, will have their visa cancelled if the relationship has ended, and must depart Australia.
For New Zealanders residing as non-protected Special Category Visa-holders often their best option is to return to New Zealand.
Unfortunately, their former partner can use the Hague Convention to prevent them taking their children out of the state, or Australia.
NZ Justice Minister Andrew Little has said the treatment of New Zealanders in Australia, and how the Hague Convention is applied, will be discussed when the Prime Ministers of Australia and New Zealand meet in February 2019.
Path to Nowhere report
10 December 2018
The National Advocacy Group on Women on Temporary Visas Experiencing Violence consists of state and national peak bodies, service providers and other organisations working to address violence against women across Australia.
The National Advocacy Group have released the Path to Nowhere Report examining the issues for women on temporary visas experiencing violence.
Report recommendations
The report recommends:
- women on temporary visas and their children experiencing violence should be able to access Centrelink, Medicare and social housing to ensure their safety and wellbeing.
- Domestic and family violence, crisis accommodation, legal, health and community service providers need additional funding to provide support to these women and children.
If you or someone you know needs help, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au
[Read the the Path to Nowhere Report].
