Michaela Meade
Banksia Gardens Community Services in Broadmeadows will share in a $1.5 million funding boost from the state government.
The service will receive $300,000 in funding to continue its Good People Act Now youth-led violence prevention initiative.
The program trains a group of young people each year to understand and raise awareness about the causes of violence against women.
Over 100 young people have completed the program since it began.
Prevention of Family Violence Minister Gabrielle Williams said the funding gives the community a real chance of preventing violence before it starts for future generations.
“Whether it’s engaging with young leaders on the sporting field, or helping them lead their peers away from gendered abuse online – we’re backing our young people to be empowered against problematic attitudes to women,” Ms Williams said.
By Cam Lucadou-Wells
The keenly-awaited Orange Door Network is set to open in Dandenong – with the challenge of reaching across its diverse community.
The network will offer free and ongoing family violence support services under one roof by the end of 2021.
Two other sites will also open in Casey and Cardinia municipalities to form the Southern Orange Door Network.
“One of the core principles of the Orange Door Network is that there is no wrong door for those seeking support,” Dandenong MP and Prevention of Family Violence Minister Gabrielle Williams said.
The network provided “support for everyone regardless of age, gender and background – and support that is culturally safe, respectful and responsive”.