The Andrews Labor Government is ramping up its support for family violence services ahead of the holiday period where Victoria Police record a spike in family violence incidents.
Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams today met with workers at The Orange Door in Frankston as they brace themselves for their busiest time of year.
Over the holiday period there will be an additional 44 cases of family violence reported to Victoria Police every day, with 14,000 incidents of family violence expected over that period.
Family violence services across Victoria have been boosted as part of the Labor Government’s record $2.6 billion investment to end family violence as services work to meet increased demand.
This includes after-hours services and flexible support packages, providing money for essentials to make it easier for women and children to leave violent relationships if they don’t have money or access to bank accounts.
Gender inequality and disrespect are the key drivers of family violence. That’s why Respect Victoria, Victoria’s Primary Prevention agency, has relaunched the Respect Women: Call it Out campaign.
The campaign will run across television, radio and print throughout the holiday period, encouraging people to call out sexist and disrespectful behaviour when they see it at Christmas and social gatherings.
The Government’s behaviour change campaigns are already making an impact, with the campaign reaching 5.2 million Victorians, with 85 per cent of those who have seen the campaign able to identify the drivers of family violence.
So far more than 25,000 people have been referred to The Orange Door’s first five sites in Frankston, Geelong, Heidelberg, Mildura and inner Gippsland.
The Orange Door is a free service, and an easy way for women, children and young people experiencing family violence or families who need assistance with the care and wellbeing of children, to get help and support.
The next tranche of The Orange Door will roll out in 2019 as part of the Labor Government’s $448.1 million investment to establish this world leading family violence reform across the state.
For more information, visit orangedoor.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams
“The holiday season can place extra strain on existing challenges in family relationships and we do see a spike in family violence incidents. That’s why we’re supporting services like The Orange Door to help women and children when they need it most.”
“We know attitudes towards women contribute to outcomes for women. At Christmas gatherings this year, if you witness sexist or disrespectful behaviour, call it out.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020