What does it cost?

Data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that the average man working full time earns 18.2% or $283.20 more than the average full time working woman. Between November 2013 and May 2014, men’s salaries increased an average of $24.90 per week and women’s increased by only $7.09. The figures show us, that overall, women earn significantly less than men. This has significant impact on their financial security over their lifetimes.

A new joint publication by VicHealth, OurWatch and PwC, A high price to pay: the economic case for preventing violence against women shows that violence against women and their children is costing Australia $21.6 billion each year.

The report reveals that:

• The cost of pain, suffering and premature mortality constitutes the largest proportion of the total cost of all violence at 48 per cent, equating to $10.4 billion.
• Governments, both State and Commonwealth then bear 36 per cent or$7.8 billion in order to deliver health services, criminal justice and social welfare for victims.
• Economically, $3.4 billion is lost either due to victims or other members of society funding for their own services or due to lost opportunity costs.
• Prevention strategies have a proven effect on levels of violence. If we engage the whole community in prevention and give them skills for respectful relationships, we will reduce the costs associated with violence.