Meet Tracey, domestic violence consultant and Freelancing Gems member

This week we’re profiling Freelancing Gems member Tracey, a Domestic Violence consultant from Brisbane on a mission to empower organisations, clubs and employers on the issue of domestic violence.

What led you into DV consulting?

After many years of working at the crisis end of high-risk domestic violence (DV) and constantly feeling like we were just putting a band-aid on the issue, I made a conscious decision to take a step back and look for opportunities where I could make the most impact. What jumped out at me is that DV is a whole of society issue that requires a whole of society response.  Since then, I have been working on empowering organisations, clubs and employers on the issue of domestic violence via the implementation of workplace DV strategies and providing individual case consultations.

What are you working on right now?

I’ve been working with a local leagues club writing and implementing DV policy, strategy and procedures, with staff development happening soon. The level of interest and genuine will to invest in this space is very encouraging. I also recently completed a case consultation for a matter involving an employee of a large mining company who was victim of DV.  The organisation’s commitment to supporting the woman and working to keep her safe was inspiring.

I am still in the process of getting the word out to employers and organisations, raising awareness around the issue of domestic violence. A positive workplace response can make a significant difference to the lives of women and children. I provide tailored workplace domestic violence policies and procedures, workplace awareness sessions and educate management on how to respond to DV disclosures or incidents. We also have been developing an online learning module and a program for employees who may be perpetrating violence, to be used as an intervention and prevention tool.

What do you love most about your work?

I have always found helping the most vulnerable people in our community a rewarding experience and consulting has allowed me to continue this work.

I get a real high when I meet with an organisation who are willing to go above and beyond to tackle the issue of domestic violence and who genuinely want to help their employees. I can clearly see how making workplaces more prepared, more capable and more effective in handling DV will help keep women safe in new ways we have not yet made the most of.

Domestic Violence is a whole of society issue that required a whole of society response. As a domestic violence consultant, Tracey is passionate about empowering employers on the issue of domestic violence by implementing workplace DV strategies and individual case consultation. Reach out to Tracey via the Talent Board to take the next important step in supporting your workforce.

Read next – Five ways employers can support female employees and freelancers.