Victoria has enshrined the prevention of family violence in law, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.

The Prevention of Family Violence Bill 2018 has passed the Upper House, formally establishing the newly created Respect Victoria as a Statutory Authority.

Respect Victoria is an organisation dedicated to preventing all forms of family violence, led by CEO Tracey Gaudry and including an Advisory Board headed by Chair Melanie Eagle.

Respect Victoria officially opened its doors earlier this month. The passage of the legislation will ensure the agency’s functions, powers and duties are protected by law.

As an independent Statutory Authority, Respect Victoria will have the authority to hold both government and communities to account on taking action to stop violence before it starts, and to demonstrate how this can be achieved.

Legislation will ensure enduring funding, so that the primary prevention of family violence remains core business of government both now and into the future.

The agency’s flagship campaign ‘Respect Women: Call It Out’ and other campaigns will instigate much needed change in the culture of disrespect and inequality that drives family violence.

Respect Victoria will also research the attitudes, practices and power relations that drive family violence and will help inform and improve the way government, organisations and the community work to prevent family violence.

For more information on Respect Victoria, visit respectvictoria.vic.gov.au

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

“Respect Victoria will help Victoria achieve a future free from family violence, where all Victorians are equal, empowered and respected.”

 “This Bill is the first step in driving generational change and stopping family violence before it starts in Victoria.”

Quote attributable to Respect Victoria’s Advisory Board Chair, Melanie Eagle

“We will not achieve our vision of a Victoria free from violence without the knowledge and expertise of those who have led this work for decades.”