The Australian Government will allocate a further $1.1 billion to the country's telehealth, domestic violence support and mental health services, as well as boost emergency relief delivered through charities and community organisations, as part of package designed to protect against the widespread impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
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Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the funding package on Sunday, with $150 million allocated to programs under the National Plan to reduce Violence against Women and their Children including 1800 Respect and Mensline Australia.
It comes as the number of Google searches relating to domestic violence help reached five-year high.
Kelly Hansen, chief executive officer of Nova for Women and Children, said the boost to DV services services such as 1800 Respect was welcome as she knew it, alongside her own, was experiencing increased calls for assistance due to the added stress coronovirus was causing on already fragile family relationships.
"The extra stress the coronavirus is causing on families is a major concern to us," Ms Hansen said.
"We are very concerned about women and children being forced to stay home, to self-isolate, in volatile situations, about how they can get supplies or support if they can't get out. We're also concerned about issues of mental health during this time."
Ms Hansen stressed to the public that Nova for Women and Children is still operating and providing services. While it is limiting its face-to-face interactions, staff are still undertaking essential meetings while following the government's guidelines on distancing.
Most meetings are now being doing through online video calls.
Anyone seeking domestic/family violence support are urged to contact Nova for Women and Children on 1800 769 654 or visit its website or Facebook page, 1800 Respect (1800 737 732), Lifeline (13 11 14) or Men's Referral Service (1300 766 491).
- Domestic Violence Hotlines: Click here to find contact details to services that may help you
Ms Hansen said Nova would be approaching supermarkets in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie to put up posters promoting phone numbers and websites where those in the community affected by domestic and family violence could access assistance.
The bulk of the government's funding package, $669 million, will go towards expanding Medicare-subsidised telehealth services, which will allow GPs and other health professionals to consult with patients through video conferencing sites rather than face-to-face.
An additional $200 million will be provided to support charities and other community organisations which provide emergency and food relief as demand surges as a result of coronavirus.
The Newcastle-based Soul Cafe, which supports homeless and disadvantaged members of the community, said it was experiencing a surge in numbers accessing its service due to the effects of the coronavirus such as job losses.
"We are seeing people in need that we have never seen before at Soul Cafe. We know that times are tough for everyone but please consider supporting the Soul Cafe Appeal," the cafe posted to its Facebook page.
The cafe is seeking food and money donations for it to continues its current services.
"Soul Cafe is still 'more than a meal' and so we have set up a dedicated communication hotline. If you can help with donations (eg groceries) or you need assistance please text the hotline 0423 543 911."
A total of $74 million of the government's package is being allocated specifically for mental health services. Of that total, $10 million will go to Beyond Blue which will deliver a dedicated coronavirus well-being helpline, $5 million to Lifeline and $2 million for the Kids Helpline.
The funding has been welcomed by Beyond Blue chairwoman Julia Gillard who said the new COVID-19 Mental Health Support Service will offer free information, counselling and referrals online and by phone.
"This pandemic is having profound impacts on the mental health and wellbeing of many Australians - we are seeing that with our current services," Ms Gillard said.
"People are looking for support to cope with the effects of widespread anxiety and uncertainty, self-isolation and loneliness, family stress, and business collapse, job loss and financial hardship caused by COVID-19."
On Sunday, the government announced new restrictions on gatherings.
Meetings outside the home ave been reduced to no more than two people. Boot camps are now banned, with only two people allowed at outside exercise sessions - the trainer and the client.
Playgrounds, outside gyms and skate parks will be closed from Monday.
The Prime Minister also announced that the states and territories will impose a moratorium on evictions for commercial and residential tenants for the next six months.
The national cabinet has also strengthened advice for vulnerable groups.
Everyone aged 70 or older should now self-isolate, Mr Morrison said, describing this as "strong advice", rather than a new rule that would be enforced by fines.
The same advice to self-isolate applies to people with chronic illnesses over 60, and Indigenous people aged over 50.
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Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
