The Andrews Labor Government is supporting new parents in Melbourne’s west with new local government grants.

Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins visited the City of Brimbank today to announce funding of $93,000 for their Brimbank Dads project.

Maintaining equal and respectful relationships – while managing the stress of a new baby, finances, and work – can be challenging for many.

The project supports new dads to be equal, supportive partners and parents.  The project will connect Dads to local support groups and resources providing guidance on managing relationships, finances and stress after the birth of a child.

The City of Melton will also receive over $33,000 to deliver the Baby Makes 3 program to 24 new parent groups in the local area.

The program includes sessions for first time parents on lifestyle and relationship changes following the birth of a child.

The funding will see more parents with the knowledge and skills to shape healthy and respectful relationships at home.

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

The Government has invested a record $2.6 billion to implement all 226 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

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

“Local councils work closely with individuals and families and are in a unique position to promote respect and equality in our communities.”

“Making the transition to parenthood is big. These programs are about a community supporting its parents in those first few important years.”