In Australia, a domestic violence incident occurs every two minutes and with 88 per cent of incidents occurring in the family home, property managers are often at the forefront of dealing with these troubling situations.

When handled well, a property manager with a specialist domestic violence skill set can aid better outcomes for the renter-victim, and their owner clients.

But, if handled poorly, the property manager risks worsening already dangerous situation, especially for the renter-victim.

That’s why First National has included domestic violence-specific training in their Investor Relations Days (IR Days). Investor Relations Days occur twice yearly in every state across the country and help educate property managers on domestic violence warning signs, and how to deal with potential victims, while prioritising their safety.

First National Real Estate's National Property Manager, Debbie Fletcher said after listening to their property managers, the network recognised the need to better equip their team with the specialist skills required to identify possible domestic violence, how to respond, how to explain to a victim their rights and responsibilities about the rental property and also the best way to prioritise the safety of the renters and the property manager.

Property managers also receive training in self-defence and understanding dangerous situations.

“If you haven’t been educated on or come across domestic violence before, there’s no reason why you would have an understanding of what to do,” Ms Fletcher said. “The whole situation can be compounded if people (victims) don’t feel that they’ve been listened to or treated accordingly. “The consequences can be detrimental and it’s not just about their self-esteem – they risk physical violence if their partner gets wind of it.”

Ms Fletcher said educating property managers supported better outcomes and educating them in customer service skills could help make them more aware of dangerous situations and prevent poor outcomes. “If they learn to read a situation, it’s better for them and the owner,” she said.

Ms Fletcher said educating property managers on how to build relationships with renters often meant they sought the help they needed and looked after their property well.

With laws surrounding domestic violence differing between states, the Investor Relations Days customise the education state-by-state to better assist the property managers.

Felicity Vance, from Relationships Australia, said First National was an industry leader in the domestic violence and property management space.

“First National should be congratulated on raising the issue of domestic violence and how it affects property managers, no other network has or would think of it,” Ms Vance said.

“Many property managers have spoken to me and said thank you as we have now given them the confidence and resources to not only do their job better but protect them.”

If you or someone you know needs help with domesttic violence, there is a wide range of family violence support services available. Visit www.vic.gov.au for a list of support services in Victoria. If someone is in immediate danger call 000.