Family violence resources
The Family Violence Protection Act 2008 defines ‘family violence’ as any behaviour by a person towards a family member that:
- is physically or sexually abusive
- is emotionally or psychologically abusive
- is economically abusive
- is threatening or coercive
- in any other way controls or dominates the family member and causes them to feel fear for their safety or wellbeing, or that of another person
It also includes behaviour by a person that causes a child to hear or witness, or otherwise be exposed to the effects of behaviour referred to above.
Based on the findings of the 2015 Royal Commission into Family Violence, it is accepted that ‘family violence is a gendered crime’ that is overwhelmingly perpetrated against women by men.
Council acknowledges the findings and recommendations of this Royal Commission and is therefore committed to working together in partnership with the local community and stakeholders to end violence against women and children. Women disproportionately experience intimate partner violence and are more likely to be hospitalised, injured, express fear or be killed by a current or former partner. To address the violence experienced by women, we must recognise its gendered nature and redress this inequity.
Council acknowledges that all forms of violence, regardless of gender is unacceptable.
Priorities and actions in Council’s Health & Wellbeing Plan and the Gender Equity Policy Statement align to regional, state, federal and global statistics, strategies and best practice.
What Council is doing
Nillumbik Council identifies that there is a direct correlation between gender equity and preventing violence against women.
Family violence and violence against women is a serious and prevalent issue both locally and nationally and affects the health and wellbeing of many people living within our municipality. We acknowledge that both women and men can experience violence, but the nature of this violence differs in terms of its severity and impacts. To address the violence experienced by women, we recognise its gendered nature.
Council is committed to advancing gender equity and respectful relationships, and reducing violence against women and children in our community. Nillumbik’s Health and Wellbeing Plan 2017-2021 and the Gender Equity Policy 2018(PDF, 229KB) provide a framework for Council to deliver actions to improve gender equity and prevent violence against women.
By adhering to the following principles we will work towards realising our vision where Nillumbik is gender equitable, safe and inclusive for all people.
- Challenge condoning of violence against women
- Challenge gender stereotypes and roles
- Promote women’s independence and decision making
- Strengthen positive, equal and respectful relationships
Council recognises the link between Gender Equity and Preventing Violence against Women through participation in the following campaigns and actions:
- 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
- Week Without Violence – The Clothesline Project
- ‘Share the Dignity’ campaign
- External 16 Days of Activism working group (engaging the community, raising awareness, and providing grant opportunities for the community to become involved in the campaign)
- Waste Truck messaging
- Partnering with Respect Victoria
Council management and team leaders have also participated in Identifying Family Violence training, to better respond to staff disclosures of family violence.
Family violence network
Banyule/Nillumbik Family Violence Network
Council coordinates the Banyule/Nillumbik Family Violence Network of external agencies who provide support to people experiencing family violence and work in prevention in Banyule and Nillumbik. The network meets bi-monthly and aims to raise awareness of family violence and prevention, and to improve coordination of services.
For more information about this network email Jodie.Leahy@nillumbik.vic.gov.au