Premier

Family Violence Initiative Targets Men’s Behaviour

09 July 2015

The Andrews Labor Government is boosting access to men’s behaviour change programs to break the cycle of family violence.

Minister for Families & Children, Jenny Mikakos, announced $1 million would go to programs across the state focused on services for men seeking help.

Under the initiative, $600,000 will be allocated to voluntary men’s behaviour change programs currently experiencing high demand.

$275,000 will be used to fund programs for Aboriginal men and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

The Men’s Referral Service, which provides anonymous and confidential telephone counselling and referrals for men seeking support for violent and controlling behaviour, will receive $125,000.

The Department of Health & Human Services will work with agencies to determine the most effective use of the funds by ensuring it is targeted to addressing local needs.

This funding is part of the Government’s $81.3 million package to boost family violence services, including the establishment of Australia's first Royal Commission into Family Violence.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Families and Children, Jenny Mikakos

This funding will enable more men to access behaviour change programs to help stop them engaging in destructive behaviour.”

“This response is part of a whole-of-government approach to addressing the community-wide issue of family violence.”

Quotes attributable to acting Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Wade Noonan

“Bringing perpetrators to account for their actions and changing that behaviour is vital in stopping violence.”

“We recognise the increase in demand for men’s behaviour change programs and this money will go some of the way to alleviating the pressure.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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