The Victorian Government is taking major steps forward with its expansion of the Orange Door Network, with a new central hub opening in regional Victoria and a further four additional sitesnow confirmed.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams today announced the Orange Door Network was now open in Loddon – with a primary site in Bendigo – while lease agreements have been signed for primary sites in theSouthern Melbourne, Western Melbourne and Wimmera South West regions.
Given its geographical area, Wimmera South West will host two primary sites in Horsham and Warrnambool.
The $448 million Australian-first initiative is a free service for those impacted by family violence that brings immediate and ongoing support services under the one roof.
A key recommendation of the Royal Commission into Family Violence – set up by the Government in 2015 – the Orange Door Network will service all 17 Department of Health and Human Servicesregions by the end of 2022.
Each primary site is complemented by access points and outposts, making it even easier for people to get in-person support wherever they live.
The Network brings together workers from specialist family violence, child and family, Aboriginal and men’s services to deliver risk assessment, safety planning and crisis assistance, as well as vital connections to services for ongoing support.
To date, it is operating in seven regions across Victoria, with the Loddon Orange Door opening today in Bendigo – and further access points planned for Echuca, Maryborough, Macedon Ranges and Loddon Shire.
Victoria continues to lead the way to prevent family violence, with $2.9 billion invested so far to address all 227 recommendations of the Royal Commission – more than the Commonwealth and all the states and territories combined.
That work is now more than two thirds complete.
For 24/7 family violence help and support, contact Safe Steps on 1800 015 188 or webchat safesteps.org.au/chat Monday through Friday, 9am to 9pm. Anyone concerned about their own behaviour can contact the Men's Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
For more information about the Orange Door Network, visit orangedoor.vic.gov.au.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams
“Everyone deserves to be safe at home but for too many Victorians, this is not the case – that’s why these investments are so important.”
“We know family violence has increased during the pandemic – which is why we haven’t wasted a moment pushing ahead with our vital reforms, including this next significant step in the expansion of our Orange Door Network.”
Reviewed 30 October 2020