THE Loddon Gender Equality and Violence Prevention Consortium has identified priority areas for the next national plan to reduce violence against women and children across the region.
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The consortium recognises the national plan as critical to addressing Australia's crisis that is violence against women and children.
Working with the community, the consortium held two forums across the Loddon region, speaking with residents from Bendigo, the Macedon Ranges, Mount Alexander, Central Goldfields, Loddon and Campaspe Shire's.
The forums were held back in May in Kyneton and Bendigo and discussed ways to protect women and children from violence.
The consortium asked members of the community during the forums to discuss five key questions relating to the Australian Government Department of Social Services' Developing The Next National Plan 'Have Your Say' survey.
The national plan is a long-term, evidence-based plan to reduce violence against women and children - and is agreed to by all Australian governments.
In a statement, the Centre for Non-Violence said community members appreciated the opportunity to have their say and to engage in the consultation process.
"Participants were able to clearly identify the critical issues and opportunities in defining actions and priorities for the next national plan," the statement said.
"We urge DSS to engage in wide ranging community consultations that engage those with lived experience of violence, experts working in the family, domestic and sexual violence sectors, and the broader community to help inform not only the development of the plan, but to provide input on progress."
The consortium consists of: Centre for Non-Violence, Annie North Women's Refuge and Domestic Violence Service, Centre Against Sexual Assault Central Victoria, Women's Health Loddon Mallee and Sunbury Cobaw Community Health.
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The consortium has significant experience in working together to deliver innovative and integrated responses to women and children experiencing violence, and programs for men who use violence towards family members.
The consortium acknowledges that violence against women and children is deeply rooted in power imbalances that are reinforced by gender norms and stereotypes.
Individuals and organisations can make submissions to the next National Plan at this link, before July 31.
You can find the consortium submission here.
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