The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) supports all those who have experienced and those living with family and domestic violence.

The College reaffirms its commitment to support Rural Generalists (RGs) and rural General Practitioners (GPs) with tools and education that provide rural and remote domestic violence survivors with the healthcare they need. 

The College recognises RGs and rural GPs can also experience domestic violence. 

“Recent news where a doctor in Northern New South Wales had her life traumatically impacted by domestic violence, has confirmed that this topic needs to remain a top priority on the College’s advocacy agenda,” Dr Halliday says. 

“Research shows that domestic violence, particularly against women, is more likely in regional, rural and remote areas. 

“On top of that, those experiencing domestic violence in regional, rural and remote communities find difficulty accessing services, through geographical isolation and lack of privacy due to the close-knit environment in which they live. 

“ACRRM has developed resources and education tools to strengthen RGs and rural GPs capacity to address family and domestic violence within their rural and remote communities. 

“But we can do more. 

“We don’t just want to treat survivors; we want to address the issues early on and be a powerful voice for reform. 

“It’s our role as leaders in rural, remote and First Nations healthcare to do all that we can to increase the ability for our members, and all healthcare professionals, to respond effectively to family and domestic violence. 

“We will continue to review and build on the resources we have available. 

“And, we are committed to regrouping as a College and further developing our position, policies and advocacy. 

“This is important for the wellbeing of our members and the communities where they live and work.” 

ENDS