A new model for dealing with domestic violence is being trialled in Alice Springs where specialists based at the police station will support victims, given advice to police, and encourage perpetrators to partake in behaviour change programs, the NT government has said.

NT Prevention of Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Minister Kate Worden said in a statement that when police dealt with domestic and family violence cases, three specialists from Women’s Safety Services of Central Australia, and the Tangentyere Council Aboriginal Corporation, would work with the victims and encourage perpetrators to partake in behaviour change programs.

“These specialist support workers will be based at the Alice Springs police station and will be able to provide advice to police in real time,” Ms Worden said.

“This new model will strengthen the integrated approach required by multiple agencies to address domestic and family violence, and will see the workers provide specialist assistance and advice to Police in relation to domestic. and family violence.”

Ms Worden did not say how long the trial would go for but said it would be reviewed to see if it could be used across the NT.

The program will cost close to $1 million, with a contribution of $860,981 coming from the federal Albanese Government, and is being run by the Territory Families, Housing and Communities Department and NT Police, along with the two domestic violence organisations.

Federal Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said additional frontline workers will support victims and the trial was part of National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.

“Violence against women and children is a national shame. One life lost to this scourge is one too many and this must end,” Ms Rishworth said.

“All governments are committed to working together to end violence against women and children in one generation. This investment proves our dedication.”

Ms Worden said the initiative was in addition to the $70 million allocated in this year’s NT budget for curbing domestic, family and sexual violence.