Manning Valley Neighbourhood Service Inc. (MVNS) successfully ran the Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service (WDVCAS) for many years. In mid 2009, the service delivery model was changed and the service is now being run from Port Macquarie by a new agency establised to delivery the WDVCAS program.

Mid North Coast Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Services

PO Box 1813 Port Macquarie NSW 2444

TAREE/FORSTER - Lou Webber (Co-ordinator)
Phone: (02) 6555 2042
Mobile: 0419 938 241   
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PORT MACQUARIE - Caroline Moran
Phone: (02) 6584 0053
Mobile: 0419 938 227
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Website: www.dvportmacquarie.org.au

Family and Domestic Violence describes a situation where one partner in a relationship is using violent and/or intimidatory tactics to control and dominate the other partner. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics it is estimated that 23% of women who are married or in de facto relationships experience violence by their partner.

The aim of the Taree Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service is to encourage and assist women who are victims of domestic violence to use the justice system to protect them and their families from further violence. The Scheme currently operates on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays of each week. Each Monday the Service operates at Taree Local Court to provide assistance with court matters. Support is provide by a Coordinator and support workers from the local community, including an Aboriginal Specialist Support Worker.

Support workers from the Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service discuss with women their needs and options, provide information about Apprehended Violence Orders or "AVOs" and domestic violence and make sure women are aware of the processes of the local court. The Service organise a legal representative for women if they do not have one, go with women to court to offer emotional support and assist in making the AVO meet the needs of the woman. Where a woman needs the services of another community organisation or service, referrals can be made. It is advisable for women to contact the Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service before their day in court so they can get as much information and support as they need.

The Women's Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service is free of charge to all women and is sensitive to the needs of women with disabilities, lesbians, Koori women and women from non-English speaking backgrounds.