Hobsons Bay City Council is calling on the state government to take greater action to address gender-based violence in the municipality.
As part of the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign, Council is advocating for action to increase access to services, to ensure victim-survivors can access the support they need, when they need it, as well as investment in primary prevention and collaborative programs that can help address the issue.
Mayor Diana Grima and representatives from key community organisations have written to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins, and local MPs Melissa Horne, Sarah Connolly and Mathew Hilakari, highlighting rising rates of family violence in Hobsons Bay and the challenges being faced in responding to the needs of people in the community.
In 2024, Hobsons Bay experienced a 12 per cent increase in family violence incidents, which evidence indicates are becoming more violent. Emergency department presentations due to family violence increased by 56 per cent in two years.
Council and its community partners call for greater investment in family violence support services, crisis accommodation, and emergency relief, increased funding for mental health services and accelerated delivery of affordable and social housing to ensure pathways out of violence are available locally.
This advocacy is part of Council's actions during the 16 Days of Activism campaign, which commenced on International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on November 25 to International Human Rights Day on December 10.
Mayor and Councillors met with local services and community providers on November 25, the first day of the campaign, to hear first-hand about the experiences of service providers and victim-survivors. The meeting included representatives from IPC Health, Laverton Community Integrated Services, Outlets Neighbourhood House in Newport, Zonta, Latitude Directions for Young People.
The campaign aims to raise awareness about violence against women and its impact on a woman's physical, psychological and social wellbeing, and economic security. It also encourages everyone to work together to prevent violence against women.
The Altona Theatre will once again be lit orange each night of the campaign, and community programs such as digital literacy classes will take place through the 16 Days campaign.
Additional information and support resources can be found at hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/16Days
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Hobsons Bay, Cr Diana Grima:
"It's extremely concerning to see family violence becoming more prevalent here in Hobsons Bay.
"The 16 Days of Activism campaign is an important opportunity to highlight the challenges facing organisations tackling the issue at community level.
"We all need to work together to address this issue, and ensure our community can access the important services and supports, where and when they need them."
