Jim Chalmers has identified “monetised misogyny” prevalent on social media as a key driver behind violence against women and children, while announcing increased government funding to address the issue.
When asked by the ABC whether the administration would back a national royal commission into gender-based violence, Chalmers indicated that the government had opted for a strategy focused on expanding support services and intervention programs rather than pursuing a formal inquiry.
He emphasized that the government aims to tackle the root causes of such violence, highlighting factors ranging from housing security to the financial incentives behind online hatred.
“We acknowledge that all of this violence is obviously entirely unacceptable. It’s horrific in every way,” Chalmers said. “That’s why we’ve increased the resources and that’s why we all need to do better to do everything we can to make a difference here.”
The comments come amid growing pressure for systemic change, as the Greens have also criticized the efficiency of emergency services, with some MPs arguing that triple-zero call centers are operating primarily for corporate profit.
A royal commission could have exposed systemic failures far better than just more funding. Sounds like yet another empty promise to me.
Finally acknowledging the root cause. Monetised misogyny is real and dangerous. Glad the government is taking this seriously.