A multicultural roundtable on family violence was held last month at Mernda Central College, with community leaders and Members of Parliament joining an important discussion.
Hosted by Member for Yan Yean Lauren Kathage, Member for Thomastown Bronwyn Halfpenny, and Member for Mill Park Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward attended the roundtable, fostering open discussions from community representatives about the work they are undertaking within their own communities to address the issue.
The roundtable provided a platform for open dialogue with community leaders to better understand the specific needs of diverse communities.
Various cultural organisations joined, including Nepalese Association of Victoria, Kowanj Australiasia, BAPS, DMNC, SPUVIC, DBSV, Roshni, InTouch, the Sikh Welfare Council and Gurmat Centre, Whittlesea Mental Health and Wellbeing Local, and The Orange Door in Epping.
The event emphasised the need for inclusive and accessible support systems.
Ms Kathage said the roundtable was crucial for community members to know where to receive help.
“Events like these are so important for bridging gaps and ensuring all community members know where to turn for help. We are committed to supporting multicultural communities in accessing the resources they need,” she said.
Ms Ward acknowledged the importance of community leadership in working towards ending family violence.
“Ending family violence needs a whole-of-community approach. Every one of us has a role to play, including within our schools, community groups, workplaces, and homes,” she said.
“Thank you to Whittlesea’s multicultural community leaders who came together … to learn about the important work Victoria is doing to respond to family violence, including our statewide Orange Door network. Such community leadership is essential in our work to end family violence.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, there is free support available:
The Orange Door: 1800 312 820
Safe Steps: 1800 015 188
InTouch Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence: 1800 755 988.
