Survey of DV workers to help improve survivor support

Workers on the frontline of domestic and family violence will be asked about their experiences in a bid to better help victims.

A national survey of the family, domestic and sexual violence workforce is to be carried out to help determine what support is needed on the ground to tackle the scourge.

The federal government will spend $1.39 million on the survey, which was a recommendation by Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commissioner Micaela Cronin in her annual report.

It's hoped it will provide more information on the state of frontline support and the skills of those dealing with the crisis, along with issues such as employment shortages and retention issues.

The survey will be finished by late 2026.

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the survey would help support be better directed to those on the ground.

"To stop violence against women and children in one generation, we need to have a robust workforce that is supported with the skills and qualifications to prevent and respond to gender-based violence," she said.

"We need a better picture of the current workings of the sector and where we need to direct our focus to achieve the best and most needed, results."

A previous national survey, conducted in 2018, found just 22 per cent of workers in dealing with domestic violence found their formal qualifications had prepared them very well or extremely well for dealing with people affected by violence.

That report also found four in five workers in the sector were women.

"This survey will not only give us updated and comprehensive insights into the workforce but will also deliver recommendations to allow us to provide better support for victim-survivors experiencing gender-based violence," Ms Rishworth said.

The Australian National University's Social Research Centre will help carry out the survey.

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