Premier

Family Violence Prevention For Aboriginal Women

07 December 2016

The Andrews Labor Government today announced funding of $500,000 to extend family violence prevention programs – designed by Aboriginal women, for Aboriginal women – for an additional two years.

Run by the Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention Legal Service Victoria, the Sisters Day Out and Dilly Bag programs reached more than 8,000 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women last year through more than 100 workshops.

The workshops give Aboriginal women information about family violence services and legal rights, while also providing therapy to encourage physical and mental wellbeing.

Through the workshops, women are empowered to take a leadership role within their community to increase the awareness of family violence and reduce social isolation, which is known to increase the risk of family violence.

Local service providers are involved in the delivery of these workshops across Victoria and Aboriginal women at risk of violence receive follow up support by the Aboriginal Family Violence Prevention Legal Service.

This investment is part of the Labor Government’s support for culturally appropriate and tailored family violence initiatives for women and families from diverse backgrounds.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Fiona Richardson

“Programs work best when they come from – and are delivered by – local communities. We are standing side by side with Indigenous women saying that the violence must stop.”

“Family violence devastates all communities. These programs aim to support and empower Aboriginal women to lead change.”

Quote attributed to the Minister for Indigenous Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“Family violence affects women from different communities in different ways. We have listened to local Indigenous women and are committed to offering tailored, culturally appropriate services.”

Quote attributed to Family Violence Prevention Legal Service CEO Antoinette Braybrook

“Reporting violence and seeking help is hard for any woman and Aboriginal women face significant barriers. Our holistic service model has a lasting impact upon Aboriginal women’s lives because it draws on their strength and resilience.”

Reviewed 19 August 2020

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