Employment is a pathway out of family violence: our submission

A Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry is examining the issue of sustainable employment for disadvantaged jobseekers.

McAuley is believed to be the only family violence service that incorporates employment support as part of our overall approach to getting women’s lives on track. Our submission to the Inquiry explains the importance of employment and financial independence in women’s ability to leave violent relationships.

While women remain financially dependent on men who are violent they are less likely to leave them.

‘Women may find themselves in a vicious cycle where their financial independence may be the path to freedom from violence but the violence may prevent them from becoming financially independent’ – McAuley’s submission

The likelihood of other consequences that women typically face when they leave violence  – poverty, homelessness, health issues, and effects on children – is also lessened if they can join or re-enter the workforce.