Safe at Home emergency services

Tasmania Police

Family Violence Response and Referral Line

Victim Safety Response Teams (VSRTs)

 
Tasmania Police - ring 000 in all emergencies

The introduction of the new Safe at Home criminal justice response to family violence has seen an increased role for Police in family violence incidents. Police have undergone more extensive family violence training in the lead up to the launch of Safe at Home.

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Family Violence Response and Referral Line - 1800 633 937

The line, which is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including public holidays, offers an information and referral service by which callers are able to access the full range of response, counselling, information and other support services provided by Safe at Home on a 24 hour basis.

The Family Violence Response and Referral Line is staffed by experienced operators who have been trained to respond appropriately and sensitively to victims and others affected by family violence. Consistent with the aims of Safe at Home, safety assessment of all calls underpins the operation of the line.

If victim safety is at risk or in question, the call will be transferred to the police radio dispatch area for an immediate police response. If victim safety is not at risk or in question, the call will be actively transferred to an appropriate counselling or support service for further assistance. In all emergencies ring 000.

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Victim Safety Response Teams

The Victim Safety Response Teams (VSRTs) deliver a range of services with a focus on improving victim safety and supporting victims in crisis situations. These include:

• completing a detailed risk assessment designed to identify the level of risk exposure
• conducting investigations when the offender is removed from the home
• gathering evidence and supporting information for a Family Violence Order
• assisting in the preparation of the Family Violence Order
• conducting a safety assessment for risk to the victim and initiating support action or removal from the home should they need to be moved to a place of safety
• notifying the Child Protection Agency of any children present and at risk
• undertaking a safety audit of the home
• arranging the upgrade of security of the victims home
• providing a safety plan to the victim
• advising the victim on the options to be considered, including referral to support and counselling services
• investigating breaches of Family Violence Orders
• organising additional security patrols if required

The VSRTs have completed specialist training and have been in place since 1 September 2004.

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