- Published:
- Friday 30 June 2017
The Andrews Labor Government has appointed Sue Clifford as Chief Executive Officer of its new family violence agency, Family Safety Victoria.
From 1 July, Family Safety Victoria will be responsible for driving and delivering the Labor Government’s unprecedented $1.9 billion action plan to end family violence.
As Victoria’s first-ever agency dedicated solely to family violence reform, Family Safety Victoria will lead the implementation of new initiatives, including establishing the Central Information Point that will allow police, courts and government services to track perpetrators and keep victims safe.
It will also be responsible for establishing the Centre for Workforce Excellence and 17 Support and Safety Hubs across the state, to give women and children the coordinated support they need to recover.
The $1.9 billion package funded in the Victorian Budget 2017/18 includes:
- $448.1 million to establish 17 Support and Safety Hubs across the state
- $270.8 million for after-hours crisis support, counselling and therapy for women and children
- $269.4 million to implement five Specialist Family Violence Courts across the state and make the system more responsive to victims’ needs
- $133.2 million will go towards extra long-term housing, more rental assistance, improved crisis accommodation and better support for people fleeing family violence.
Ms Clifford worked at Executive and Commander levels in Victoria Police and has extensive experience in delivering community safety strategies.
With an Executive Master in Public Administration and significant expertise in engaging with diverse communities and driving change, she is well placed to lead these important reforms.
Ms Clifford will formally commence the role in August, with Chris Asquini acting in the position in the interim.
Quotes attributable to Acting Premier James Merlino
“We promised to do everything we can to end family violence – and this new agency will help do that.”
“Sue Clifford’s skills and experience will drive the work of Family Safety Victoria, to implement our extensive reforms and help put an end to family violence.”
Quotes attributable to Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings
“Our record investment into family violence will make sure perpetrators are held to account, and that victims get the support and protection they need to stay safe and recover.”
“This new agency will put survivors at the centre of Government efforts to stamp out family violence in Victoria, and Sue Clifford is the ideal choice to drive this change.”