Women in the south-east experiencing or at risk of family violence will continue to get help, with a two-year funding package for women’s health services across Victoria.
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas announced that Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE) was one of 12 women’s health services in Victoria to receive a share of $3 million over the next two years to continue their work in preventing family violence.
The continuation of funding will ensure services can build on their vital work to deliver prevention of family violence training, advice and support to organisations in their local areas, including local government and health services.
Of the 12 services receiving funding, nine are regionally based while three operate state-wide.
“WHISE has been providing critical care to our region for many years and this continued funding should support their fantastic work helping women and families in desperate circumstances,” Mr Maas said.
WHISE warmly welcomed the announcement, which was continuing to provide services and support to the community during the pandemic.
“With our partners we have developed resources and tools to support gender equality in the workplace and prevent violence against women, delivered capacity and capability building programs to over 2500 participants and supported and built awareness across our diverse communities,” CEO of WHISE, Kit McMahon said.
Family violence is a national emergency, with one woman killed at the hands of a current or former partner every week. It is the leading cause of death, disability and illness in Victorian women aged 15 to 44 years.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams said research has shown during times of crisis that family violence can increase.
“It is more important than ever that the health services that support women and families continue have the resources they need to keep Victorians safe,” she said.
The announcement includes $600,000 from the State Government’s recent $59.4 million mental health package to help meet demand as Victorians reach out for help with stress and isolation during coronavirus.
It’s also in addition to the $40.2 million package for crisis accommodation and specialist services for people suffering or at risk of family violence.
