By Alesha Capone
A new service to assist people in the west who have experienced family violence will establish its main premises in Wyndham.
The Orange Door network, which is already operational in eight Victorian regions, will commence services in western Melbourne next year.
Wyndham council last week welcomed an announcement from the state government which confirmed the network’s primary premises in the west would be based in the Wyndham area.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Gabrielle Williams, who delivered the news, said that survivors of family violence – from children to adults – would be able to access The Orange Door network for free support.
The network is part of the state government’s response to the Royal Commission into Family Violence.
Family Safety Victoria, which was set up in 2017, is leading the establishment of The Orange Door.
Wyndham’s community safety portfolio holder, Cr Susan McIntyre, said the council has been helping Family Safety Victoria with planning and to partner with local agencies.
“The network brings together workers from across specialist family violence, child and family, Aboriginal and men’s services to deliver risk assessments, safety planning and crisis assistance, as well as vital connections to ongoing support such as counselling,” Cr McIntyre said.
“The Orange Door network at Wyndham will not only include the primary premises, but provide other face-to-face access points, outposted staff and outreach services.
“This is an important step to ensuring that no matter where you live in the west, family violence support is available to all that need it.”
During 2020, the number of family violence offence in Wyndham recorded by Victoria Police rose by 13.3 per cent (from 3263 to 3696 crimes).
Across Wyndham, the number of family violence-related assaults increased from 884 in 2019 to 973 in 2020.
The amount of family-violence related stalking, threatening and harassment offences increased from 136 in 2019 to 173 during last year.
Details: orangedoor.vic.gov.au/
For assistance contact the Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre 24/7 phone line on 1800 015 188 or see www.safesteps.org.au/.
