The Rural Support Service (RSS) provides expert consultation to South Australia’s six regional Local Health Networks (LHNs), addressing the unique challenges faced by regional communities. Children in these areas experience greater psychosocial complexity and poorer outcomes than their metropolitan counterparts, often due to isolation, limited resources, and higher rates of domestic, family, and sexual violence (DFSV).

In 2022, the RSS conducted a comprehensive child and family safety audit across Acute, Community Health, Aboriginal Health, and Mental Health services. Over 150 staff participated via focus groups and surveys. The audit identified five key systemic risks, aligned with the National Safety and Quality Health Standards, and informed the development of a Risk Register. This process fostered collective action and a shared commitment to change.

To strengthen governance and response to violence, abuse, and neglect (PRVAN), the RSS established a Regional LHN PRVAN Steering Committee with executive-level representation from all regional LHNs. This committee oversees implementation plans, provides operational guidance, and supports system-wide enhancements.

A unified regional response to DFSV has been instrumental in developing and implementing the Ask Assess Respond (AAR) Procedure, training packages, and clinical guides. Regular training builds the capacity of clinical staff to identify, support, and refer victim-survivors. The introduction of the Activity Based Funding (ABF) Tier 2 code 40.65 enables accurate tracking of service responses.

This work is deeply rooted in community. Regional clinicians often know the people they serve—friends, neighbours, and family—making the commitment to improving outcomes both professional and personal. The impacts of DFSV are felt across entire communities, reinforcing the importance of a coordinated, compassionate response.