The NSW Police Force and Women’s Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) have collaborated to enhance the experience of women reporting domestic and family violence (DFV). This support service is available to women aged 16 and over experiencing domestic and family violence.
Currently in pilot phase, the service provided by WDVCAS specialist DFV workers includes:
- Provide information, advocacy and referrals to address legal, social and welfare needs of women experiencing Domestic and Family Violence.
- Assist women during the police reporting process and while making statements.
- Improve women’s access to and understanding of ADVOs and the NSW justice system.
- Work closely with police to achieve the safest outcomes.
Specialist DFV workers are available at selected police stations*, Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.
- Armidale
- Albury
- Blacktown
- Fairfield
- Granville
- Griffith
- Kogarah
- Nowra
- Orange
- Taree
- Toronto/Belmont
* Remote support will soon be available via electronic means at other police stations.
Information provided to the support worker from WDVCAS workers may be shared with police, this includes:
- Baseline information (shared in every matter).
- Detailed information (shared with the woman’s consent).
- Detailed information may be shared without consent if necessary to reduce the threat to the woman’s safety at the discretion of the support worker. (Part 13A of the Crimes (Domestic and Personal Violence) Act 2007) refers.