Dr Vanessa Olsen says that there is now more awareness of domestic violence and an increase in the provision of services for victims but there is still a long way to go.
Dr Olsen, who is the manager at the Wilma women’s health service in Campbelltown, should know – she is herself a domestic violence survivor.
She first received support here in Campbelltown after fleeing her home in the Hills district.
“Things have got a little better since then but there is much more to be done,’’ she says.
“We have brilliant case workers, but we need more facilities for women escaping from domestic violence and much more affordable housing as well here in Campbelltown.
“We also need to change the conversation; victim blaming still happens.
“What people don’t realise is that you don’t fall in love with a perpetrator.
“Many people think that domestic violence is a low socioeconomic issue, but I was a successful academic with a high profile who was very good at keeping my secret,’’ Dr Olsen said.
On the positive side, victims of domestic and family violence in NSW now have access to an innovative new mobile phone application designed to discreetly document abuse and provide better access to support services.
Launched this week, Empower You includes a private diary, a coded emergency signal feature, which can also send their GPS location, simple connectivity to Triple Zero for emergencies, and links local support services.
Ms Olsen says that in the meantime Campbelltown is continuing to experience high levels of domestic violence.
Wilma alone helps 40 women who become homeless every year and there are more than 100 referrals from the police to services such as Macarthur domestic violence court advocacy.
In a bid to increase awareness of the issue, and as part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence 2023, Campbelltown Domestic Violence Committee have launched an art competition.
Anyone can submit an art work that represents their experiences and insight into domestic violence.
The competition – Domestic Violence Through Their Eyes – is open now and entries will be accepted until October 14.
To enter visit the Campbelltown Domestic Violence Committee website at https://www.dvhelp.org.au/
