This is an open letter to the decision makers of Gippsland. 

The Gippsland community is concerned by the growing issue of family violence (FV) in our region. The impact of family violence devastates both the individuals directly impacted and our community as a whole. It is critical that we take urgent, decisive action to ensure that those who are experiencing and using family violence have access to the comprehensive support they need to heal, rebuild, and thrive. Simultaneously, we must ensure that our workforce have the resources and tools to feel supported to undertake their work. 

Recent statistics show that family violence remains a significant issue in Gippsland. The region continues to experience alarming rates of FV incidents, many of which go unreported. This is a crisis that affects individuals, families - including children and young people - and our broader community, and it is one that demands a stronger response.

We have been appreciative of the resources the Victoria Government provided in the wake of the Royal Commission to Family Violence. However, we want to emphasis the need for continued and growing support, as many individuals in Gippsland still face significant barriers in accessing the support services they need.

There is a pressing need for:

Therapeutic Support -

Survivors and users of FV require access to trauma-informed, ongoing therapeutic support. This is vital in helping individuals recover from the emotional and psychological impacts of FV and sexual abuse. Only 9% of children in the state of Victoria who experience FV currently have access to counselling and support services. 

Housing and Exit Pathways -

Individuals fleeing FV are left without a safe place to live, exacerbating the trauma they’ve already experienced. There is urgent need for more accommodation options - crisis, temporary accommodation and long-term accommodation - especially for those in rural and regional areas like Gippsland, where resources are more limited. 

Case management -

People who are in relationships where FV is present need specialist support to monitor risk and safety and provide education and explore opportunities for next steps. Gippsland need more case management, so that victim survivors have timely access to support without waiting times. 

Adults who are using violence -

People who use violence need access to a greater suite of programs to support behaviour change and increase safety for their families. We’re asking for a specific unit price for family contact workers to work with the extended family, to expedite the statewide roll out of the Serious Risk Program and for greater sustained funding to support behaviour change.

In addition, we are advocating for funding to be directed towards innovative programs that go beyond just "Serious Risk" interventions. This includes programs designed to support individuals who may not meet the serious risk threshold but are acknowledging their use of violence and are committed to making positive changes. By creating opportunities for these individuals to seek help, we can provide a more comprehensive approach to reducing family violence and supporting lasting behavioural transformation.

Primary Prevention -

We want to educate to stop family violence before it starts. Primary prevention needs the resources to work with community and sector leaders, to build the prevention workforce and the investment into community partnerships. 

It is imperative that we increase investment in these areas. The Gippsland community expects a timely response to family violence, which requires the ongoing support and investment from our leaders. Family violence is a preventable issue, but it requires a coordinated, multi-faceted approach involving both state and federal resources.

As a person of Gippsland, I urge you to commit to further support for those experiencing family violence, and to ensure that our region is equipped with the resources necessary to protect and assist survivors. It is time to invest in lasting solutions that empower individuals to break free from cycles of violence and rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response and to seeing action taken to address this urgent issue in Gippsland.