A new support program targeted specifically at men is providing early intervention services for South Australians at risk of perpetrating domestic violence in a bid to stem violent behaviours.

The new Don’t Become That Man service aims to encourage men to seek help before they resort to any form of violence or abuse and before their behaviour escalates out of control, so they can take steps to make positive changes in their lives. Providing support to perpetrator early intervention not only helps men but it aims to keep women and children safe too. Don’t Become That Man will provide immediate assistance by offering prevention and longer-term support to men before harm occurs to women and children.

The program will use phone and video contact, and face to face where possible, and group sessions will also be available. Trained intervention counsellors will connect men with treatment and support services and facilitate counselling sessions which are tailored to the individual supporting motivation for change and accountability for actions. Partners and family members are also encouraged to call the service if someone in their family needs help.

Backed by a $660,000 State Government boost, the service is being delivered by Community Transitions. Men will be referred to the service through the new, dedicated 24/7 Men’s Referral Service hotline, funded for the first-time by the State Government.

The State Government was able to fast-track this new service through a $2.4 million Federal Government injection for immediate support for DV services in South Australia, which includes funding for Don’t Become That Man, the new men’s hotline and advertising campaign, Break the Cycle.

The Break the Cycle advertising campaign highlights that there is a cycle of abuse, and there is a way out. The ads, which are currently running on TV, radio and online, encourage men using abusive behaviour to contact the 24/7 Men’s Referral Service, and if they want help, they will then be referred onto Community Transitions.

24/7 Men’s Referral Service: 1300 766 491
Don’t Become That Man: 1300 24 34 13
www.dontbecomethatman.org.au