Family violence survivors will be supported back into the workplace through a transformative research program funded by the Andrews Labor Government.
The $8.67 million 'Safe and Equal @ Work' program at Monash University will build on the lived experience of survivors to develop better family violence responses and prevention measures in collaboration with industry and employers.
Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney and Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams today visited Queen Victoria's Women's Centre to celebrate the launch of the program alongside the Monash University community and industry representatives.
Minister Tierney also met family violence and human rights advocate Liana Papoutsis, who rebuilt her life after leaving a violent relationship - an experience she has used to drive reforms in responses to family violence across Victoria.
The 'Safe and Equal @ Work' program will develop:
Better online access to legal and support services for family violence survivors A world-first roadmap to educate and support employers to achieve safety and equality in the workplace Recommendations for industry and government to ensure the safety of women and children Employment pathways for the next generation of family violence researchers, especially those with lived experience
The program will create 15 research jobs and 24 Graduate Certificate of Family Violence Prevention scholarships for people with lived experience.
The funding will also support the refurbishment of the Menzies Building in Clayton to create dedicated facilities for family violence and gender equality researchers and industry leaders. It will be designed by Lyons Architects and is expected to create about 34 jobs when construction starts later this year.
This project is one of many proposals from universities to the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund, which was developed in response to the significant impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the sector.
The $350 million Fund is supporting universities with capital works, research infrastructure projects and applied research focused on boosting Victoria's productivity and economy as the state recovers from the pandemic.
As stated by Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
"Family violence is one of the biggest problems our community faces - which is why we're proud to fund this vital research initiative which will have tangible benefits to the lives of Victorians."
As stated by Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams
"This project will further cement Victoria as a world leader in addressing family violence and overcoming gender inequality."
As stated by Monash University Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Gardner
"Monash is strongly committed to generating innovative research that changes lives, informs policy and improves practice - we thank the State Government for today's announcement."
