The pilot from Queensland-based domestic and family violence hotline DVConnect will provide women access to a secure device to contact a specialist crisis counsellor via a video call, with the aim of giving women a ‘face-to-face’ experience to feel better supported while staying in motel accommodation.
As well as funding, QSuper will provide technology for the pilot which will be trialed in Gladstone and Bundaberg.
QSuper chief executive Michael Pennisi said that supporting the program was an obvious choice for the fund, who are committed to combating domestic and family violence.
“Domestic violence takes a significant social, emotional and financial toll on its victims, who are predominantly women. With women making up almost two-thirds of QSuper membership and more than half of our workforce, we feel a great responsibility to act,” Mr Pennisi said.
Mr Pennisi also acknowledged the work of many QSuper members in supporting victims and families.
“Every day, thousands of our members either directly or indirectly support victims of domestic violence and their families – police, nurses, emergency services, teachers, child safety and legal officers, to name a few,” he said.
“We want to mirror their commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable Queenslanders. Our partnership with DVConnect is a demonstration of that.”
In 2016, QSuper entered into a partnership with DVConnect providing financial support for the hotline to employ an additional full-time telephone support officer to meet demand.
The fund also offers in-kind support to DVConnect, as well as fundraising and volunteering by QSuper employees.
