We were thrilled to have the Hon. Tim Richardson MP and Domestic Violence Victoria CEO, Fiona McCormack join us on June 16 to formally launch our Family Violence Statement of Commitment. The breakfast event was well attended by CEOs and Managers from local government, community health, women's health and community agencies across our catchment.

Tim Richardson spoke eloquently of the depth of the family violence issue in our community and the responsibility we all have to enact cultural, community and workplace changes. This was emphasised by Fiona McCormack who illustrated specific examples where community and partnership support had changed the lives of women and their children. Fiona particularly underlined the benefits of working in partnership to address the issue.

Giving a heartfelt personal account of family violence experienced during childhood, SMPCP outgoing Chair, Ray Blessing provided a unique insight to the issue.

All attendees were in agreement that signing the Family Violence Statement of Commitment was an important step forward in supporting cultural change in our community. To symbolise this, agency representatives signed an oversized version of the agreement together to show their unity on the issue.

Agencies interested in signing the Statement of Commitment are encouraged to contact Cher Twe on 8587 0338 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..