Government reveals $23 million scheme to stop at-risk boys committing family violence

Young men and boys at risk of engaging in family, domestic and sexual violence are set to be assisted through a national early intervention trial.

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the funding aimed to support boys and young men to recover from experiences of violence before any similar behaviour presents itself in their adult relationships. Source: AAP / Mick Tsikas

Teenage boys at risk of perpetrating family violence in adulthood could have their behaviour stamped out through a national early intervention trial.

The background: An estimated 2.7 million Australians aged 18 and over have experienced physical or sexual abuse by an adult before the age of 15, according to the ABS.

The key quote: "Supporting children and young people as victim-survivors in their own right and addressing the impacts of developmental trauma to help healing and recovery will help break future cycles of violence," Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said.

"There are currently only limited and inconsistent services available across Australia that specifically support children and young people who have experienced violence and are themselves using or at risk of using violence, and this trial will help address this gap."

What happens next: The scheme will be backed by $23 million in federal government funding over the next three years, set to be divided between 12 organisations across states and territories from November.

Chosen organisations will be tasked with creating a new early intervention program for young men and boys aged 12 to 18 who have had adverse childhood experiences.

These factors include experience with family and domestic violence and who are using or at risk of using family, domestic or sexual violence.

Supports will include one-on-one counselling, case management and youth mentoring along with personalised safety plans and assessments.

Each is aimed to be culturally safe and trauma-informed, and support will be tailored to the individual needs and circumstances of participants.

Read more: A major review declares family violence an 'emergency'. Here's what it says needs to change

If you or someone you know is impacted by family and domestic violence or sexual assault call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au

Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline crisis support on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 and Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (for young people aged 5 to 25). More information is available at beyondblue.org.au and lifeline.org.au.

Anyone seeking information or support relating to child sexual abuse can contact Bravehearts on 1800 272 831 or Blue Knot on 1300 657 380.