Melton council has bolstered its support for gender equality with the launch of its Equality and Respect Strategy.
State Minister for Women, Natalie Hutchins last Friday helped to launch the strategy, which outlines the actions that council will take over the next 12 years in its drive for equality.
Melton mayor Bob Turner said that the council wanted to share its vision and plans around how equality might be achieved.
He said that a main aim was to make Melton safer and more inclusive.
“The strategy provides guidance on how we can make both our community and workplaces gender equitable, safe and inclusive,” Cr Turner said. “It shows that we will work in partnership with residents and key government and community agencies, to not only prevent violence against women, but also promote gender equity.”
The launch follows a recently announced $400,000 state funding package for family violence prevention programs around Victoria.
Ms Hutchins said the money would also support community groups in trialling and evaluating new approaches to violence prevention.
“Ending family violence means addressing gender inequality in all settings,” she said. “We’re using every means necessary to stop violence before it starts.
“These investments will ensure we are better equipped to prevent family violence in Melbourne’s west.”
