More money will go towards preventing family violence and keeping victim survivors safe, as part of the Victorian Budget 2018/19.

The Andrews Labor Government is investing $42.5 million, on top of last year’s record $1.9 billion, to stop the scourge of family violence – more than any other state or federal government in the nation.

The Budget includes $24 million to help change the attitudes that contribute to family violence and all forms of violence against women.

This builds upon the Labor Government’s ongoing family violence prevention campaigns, ensuring disrespectful attitudes and behaviours towards women are challenged.

The Budget also includes funds for Free from Violence, Victoria’s strategy to prevent family violence and all forms of violence against women, by delivering targeted prevention programs.

These programs will work with local communities, employers and organisations to help prevent family violence before it starts.

The Labor Government is also investing $13.5 million to prevent family violence in Aboriginal communities, with a focus on implementing the 10 Year Aboriginal Family Violence Plan, and making sure Aboriginal Victorians can better access our new Family Violence Support and Safety Hubs.

An extra $5 million will support implementation of the 10 Year Family Violence Industry Plan, assisting our family violence agencies to train and develop their workforce and continue keeping women safe.

These initiatives are on top of the Labor Government’s unprecedented $1.9 billion funding package to implement all 227 recommendations of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

Quotes attributable to Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins

“We know prevention is key to reducing the scourge of family violence. This investment will take us one step closer to a Victoria free from violence against women.”

“We all have a role to play in changing the attitudes that lead to family violence. It’s why we’re investing in a state-wide campaign, while also supporting our grassroots community organisations.”

Quotes attributable to Special Minister of State Gavin Jennings

“Our record investment in family violence is making sure perpetrators are held to account, and victims get the support they need to stay safe.”

“We’re also supporting our family violence workforce, making sure they have the skills and support they need to keep women and children safe.”