The new South Australian initiative aimed at protecting people at risk of domestic violence is showing strong results, including identifying potential victims who had previously never reached out to support services.
In the first seven months of operation, the Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme has received 132 applications, highlighting a strong awareness and uptake of the scheme by people at risk of, or experiencing, domestic or family violence.
More than 65 per cent of people accessing the scheme have not had any previous contact with domestic violence support services.
The scheme is connecting new women to help and support, and helping to reach out to those in the community who may feel at risk and have previously been too frightened or unsure, to take any action.
The Domestic Violence Disclosure Scheme, which began accepting applications on 2 October 2018, gives individuals who may be at risk the chance to find out if their current or former partner (where there is ongoing contact) has a history of violence or related offences.
An application may be made by any person in South Australia who is over the age of 17 years. You can apply online or at your local police station if you need assistance with filling out the form.
The disclosure of relevant information allows people to make an informed decision about their safety and the safety of their children, seek assistance, undertake safety planning, and decide whether or not to remain in the relationship.
Of the 132 applications received to the end of April 2019, 43 per cent are seeking information about a current partner and 57 per cent wanted to know about a former partner as there was ongoing contact.
Around two thirds of applications were made by people who felt they were at risk of domestic violence.