$80K grant windfall

Casey Mayor Cr Geoff Ablett welcomed the funding from the State Government to tackle family violence.

City of Casey has been successful in its application for a grant to assist with its Family Violence Prevention Program.

The Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Natalie Hutchins visited Bunjil Place on Thursday 16 August where she announced $80000 in funding towards the council program.

The City of Casey recently launched its Family Violence Prevention Strategy as part of its effort to ensure Casey is a city where people feel safe in their homes, neighbourhoods, in public spaces and on all modes of transport.

The Strategy was formally launched at an event in July and contains a four-year strategic plan, which identified family violence as a significant safety issue within the municipality.

It aims to provide a safe, inclusive and connected community where Council services and facilities are driven by community needs.

City of Casey Mayor Cr Geoff Ablett welcomed the funding from the State Government and thanked Minister Hutchins for attending Bunjil Place and making the announcement.

“This funding will go towards two projects, both of which will create more awareness around family violence and empower our residents to help us in our fight to overcome this horrendous issue,” he said.

“The Spaces, Places and Equity project aims to address the issue around the lack of understanding regarding gender equality. Through this, Council will design and embed gender equity guidelines and principles into its service and facility delivery.

“The second project, Standing by Women will increase awareness of what constitutes family violence and empower people to take action on this issue.”

Both projects involve community engagement and consultation components, educational opportunities and leadership skills and training.