Program boost in Hoppers

By Esther Lauaki

A family violence prevention program being run in Hoppers Crossing will receive a major funding boost.

Drummond Street Services has been granted $136,000 for the expansion of its All Come Out to Play program, a joint initiative with Playgroup Victoria and Hullaballoo Music, which encourages respectful behaviour from an early age by challenging gender stereotypes.

Werribee MP Tim Pallas said the state government was aiming to stop family violence before it started and protect women and children in Wyndham.

“Bad attitudes towards women lead to bad outcomes for women, which is why I’m proud we’re investing in Wyndham to prevent family violence and all forms of violence against women,” he said.

“We’re delivering landmark reforms to stamp out family violence and this funding to local organisations will help drive community change.

“Family violence affects all areas – it’s critical to support community groups who are working to change attitudes.”

A funding lift of $9 million will go towards almost 60 projects and initiatives across Victoria to help drive gender equality, workplace respect and increased women’s participation in fields traditionally dominated by men. The funding program was part of 227 recommendations implemented following a royal commission into family violence.