Local councils across New South Wales are set to take a leading role in tackling the root causes of domestic, family and sexual violence, as part of a new partnership between Local Government NSW (LGNSW) and the state government.
A $1 million initiative, funded under the NSW Government’s Pathways to Prevention Strategy 2024–2028, will equip councils to implement evidence-based, place-based primary prevention activities in their communities.
The strategy represents the state’s first dedicated whole-of-government plan to prevent such violence before it occurs.
Over the next three years, LGNSW will deliver unconscious bias training, promote gender equality, and develop resources to support local councils in understanding and implementing primary prevention initiatives.
A key element includes a new guide with action planning templates and prioritisation tools tailored for council use.
A Domestic and Family Violence Primary Prevention Officer will be appointed within LGNSW to collaborate with councils and NGOs, building awareness and delivering technical support across NSW.
The Pathways to Prevention Strategy outlines a public health approach grounded in socio-ecological theory. It identifies local government as a critical player in addressing the gendered drivers of violence, particularly through its roles in employment, planning, service delivery, procurement, and local leadership.
Priority settings for prevention include local communities, schools, workplaces and sports clubs – environments where councils already exert considerable influence.
The strategy stresses the importance of engaging these settings to disrupt harmful gender norms and promote equitable relationships.
Councils’ involvement will also support key actions under the strategy’s first priority: progressing prevention in settings of cultural influence. These efforts align with broader government reforms and complement crisis response and early intervention services already in place.
LGNSW President Mayor Phyllis Miller OAM says councils are well placed to lead community-level change.
“Domestic, family and sexual violence affects every community – and it’s entirely preventable. With the right tools, councils can help stop it before it starts,” she said.
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison, emphasised that prevention is critical to long-term change.
“That’s why the NSW Government is partnering with organisations like Local Government NSW to provide support to local councils and communities to address the underlying beliefs and cultures across our society that have tolerated – and even condoned – violence against women and children,” she said.
For councils wishing to learn more about the Primary Prevention program, please contact communitypolicy@lgnsw.org.au.
If you or someone you know are in immediate danger, call the Police on Triple Zero / 000.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic and family violence, call the NSW Domestic Violence Line on 1800 65 64 63 for free counselling and referrals, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For confidential advice, support, and referrals, contact 1800 RESPECT or 13 YARN.
If you are worried about your own behaviour and use of violence, contact the Men’s Referral Service online or by phone on 1300 766 491.
