Wungening Aboriginal Corporation and Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service are collaborating on a groundbreaking initiative to combat family and domestic violence in Western Australia. In partnership with Stopping Family Violence Inc, the peak body for men’s behavior change programs in WA, they are developing a culturally informed men’s behavior change program that aims to address family, domestic, and sexual violence through tailored and culturally safe responses.
The project, which will receive $500,000 in funding, is part of the Australian Government’s Innovative Perpetrator Responses initiative, contributing to a total of $3.4 million allocated to the Western Australian Government. The goal is to enhance workforce capacity and develop a service model for engaging with men who are already involved with service providers as part of a family engagement. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to working with individuals who exhibit violent behavior in a culturally competent manner, providing them with culturally sensitive and effective resources for behavior change.
This initiative aligns with the shared commitment of the Australian and West Australian governments to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032. It also supports the Western Australia Aboriginal Family Safety Strategy 2022-2032, both of which aim to address and prevent violence in Indigenous communities.
Government ministers have expressed their support for the program, highlighting the importance of culturally safe programs to meet the specific needs of First Nations families and communities. They emphasize that addressing perpetrator behavior and holding individuals accountable for their actions is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of victims.
The Innovative Perpetrator Responses program and the National Partnership on Family, Domestic, and Sexual Violence Responses 2021-2027, funded by the Australian Government, are key components in Australia’s fight against violence towards women and children. Through these initiatives, the country aims to address perpetrator behavior, hold individuals accountable, and ultimately end violence in all its forms.
It is vital to have effective interventions to support men in changing their behavior and prevent them from reoffending. By providing culturally safe and trauma-informed services, it is hoped that this program will make a significant impact on reducing family and domestic violence in Indigenous communities.
If you or someone you know is in need of crisis support, the 13YARN Crisis Supporter helpline is available 24/7 at 13 92 76.
In conclusion, Wungening Aboriginal Corporation, Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service, and Stopping Family Violence Inc are spearheading a culturally informed men’s behavior change program to combat family and domestic violence in Western Australia. With the support of the Australian Government, this initiative aims to hold perpetrators accountable, prevent reoffending, and improve the safety of victims. Through culturally sensitive interventions, this program will play a significant role in addressing violence in First Nations communities and promoting positive change.
