The Andrews Labor Government is supporting local government programs that are working to prevent family violence in Macedon.

Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins today announced more than $180,000 in funding for local government programs that will help keep the women and children of Macedon safe.

Councils work closely with local families, community organisations, businesses and sports clubs. This places them in the strategic position to address inequality and violent behaviour in the community.

Macedon Ranges Shire is receiving a $100,000 grant to deliver a program that will help staff to challenge the structures and practices that drive violence against women.

Moorabool Shire Council is receiving $57,000 to deliver a workforce cultural change program. The program will support new parents and promote gender equality in local sporting clubs.

Hepburn Shire Council’s $28,000 grant will help promote gender equity within the Council and wider community, and increase the number of women in leadership positions in Council.

These initiatives are supported by the Free From Violence Local Government Grants, which support local councils to embed primary prevention in their everyday work.

The Labor Government together with local councils have invested $4 million for prevention activities across the state. This includes $2.6 million from the Labor Government.

The Government has invested a record $2.6 billion to implement all 227 recommendations of the Royal Commission into Family Violence, to support victim survivors and end family violence.

For information on Free from violence: Victoria’s strategy to prevent family violence and all forms of violence against women, visit vic.gov.au/familyviolence

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

“Ending family violence requires a whole of community approach. By investing in prevention programs led by local government we will help stop family violence before it starts.”

Quote attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas

“Everyone has a role to play in stopping family violence. From local government, to community and sporting clubs and schools, the people of Macedon have made it clear that they want a future free from family violence.”