Released 28/01/2023
Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Yvette Berry has announced the appointment of eight new members to the Domestic Violence Prevention Council (DVPC).
The Domestic Violence Prevention Council provides advice to government to improve responses to domestic and family violence. The body was reformed in 2022 to improve its capacity to provide strategic guidance and identify systemic gaps in the ACT’s response to domestic and family violence.
“The reforms introduced a new membership structure to bring together the expertise needed to guide the DVPC’s work,” said Minister Berry.
"Following a full merit-based selection process I’m pleased to announce the 3-year appointment of 8 new members. These new members are made up of representatives from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, the multicultural community, women with disabilities and the health and crisis support sectors."
The new members are:
- Kat Reed, CEO of Women with Disabilities ACT
- Zakia Patel, Executive Director of the Multicultural Hub
- Lauren Anthes, CEO of Women’s Health Matters
- Robyn Martin, CEO of Beryl Women Inc
- Papunya Connors, member who represents the interests of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community
- Tanya Keed, member who represents the interests of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community
- Agata Pukiewicz, member who represents the interests of people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
- Amanda Alford, member with skills or experience relevant to the functions of the DVPC
The new appointees will join the statutory members:
- Victims of Crime Commissioner
- Coordinator-General for Family Safety
- CEO of the Domestic Violence Crisis Service
- ACT Policing representative
- Commissioner of ACT Corrective Services
“Family and domestic violence never has and never will be tolerated in the ACT,” said Minister Berry.
“The appointment of these new members to the council reiterates our commitment to empowering and valuing diverse voices when it comes to addressing this critical issue for Canberrans”.
If you or someone you know is requires support please call DVCS on 02 6280 0900 or 1800RESPECT if outside of ACT or visit communityservices.act.gov.au/domestic-and-family-violence-support.
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases