The Andrews Labor Government is ensuring women of all cultural backgrounds experiencing family violence can access the help and support they need, with $788,000 in funding going to Wellsprings for Women to support women experiencing family violence in Melbourne’s south east.

The funding is part of a $117 million package to support victims of family and sexual violence and perpetrator intervention programs announced in the Victorian Budget 2023/24 and builds on the Labor Government’s record investment in the prevention of family violence.

The funding increase to Wellsprings for Women will enable the organisation to continue supporting migrant, refugee, and asylum seeker women who are experiencing family violence. It builds on the funding the organisation received through the Supporting Multicultural and Faith Communities to Prevent Violence grant program.

Last year, the Labor Government established a Multicultural Working Group to help improve family and sexual violence responses for multicultural communities, providing a state-wide platform for cross-sector dialogue between community leaders, multicultural, ethno-specific, faith-based community organisations, and specialist family and sexual violence organisations.

This year’s Budget boost to Wellsprings for Women cements the organisation’s role in providing vital support in Melbourne’s south-east for multicultural women experiencing family violence.

Victoria is leading the nation with its work to end family violence, having invested more than $3.7 billion since the Royal Commission into Family Violence – more than every other state and territory combined.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Ros Spence

“It’s critical that support is provided to women experiencing family violence, regardless of their culture or faith. This funding will enable Wellsprings for Women to continue this vital service to the community.”

“The Andrews Labor Government recognises that women of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds often have different needs, and we’re here to support them.”

Quote attributable to Member for Dandenong Gabrielle Williams

“Wellsprings for Women is a fantastic local organisation, and this funding will enable it to continue its vital work in Melbourne’s south-east.”