A new Barwon South West partnership is driving gender equity and violence prevention against women across the region.
The inaugural Respect 2040 Executive Governance Group was launched on Thursday, May 30, to tackle gender-based inequalities and promote safer and more inclusive communities.
Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West chief executive Jodie Hill said the partnership consisted of 12 organisations that represented education, government, sport, health and services.
“By uniting forces, we can amplify our impact and create change that extends far beyond our individual capacities,” she said.
“This collaboration represents a great step forward in our collective efforts to achieve gender equality and eliminate violence against women.
“This partnership enables us to expand our reach and implement innovative strategies that address the root causes of gender inequality and promote positive, respectful relationships.”
Barwon South West Public Health Unit health promotion and primary prevention manager Anita Hill said the partnership united organisations in a collaborative regional effort.
“Respect 2040 provides a critical platform and opportunity for a whole of region approach to reducing the impact of family violence,” she said.
“The Barwon South West Population Health Catchment Plan 2023-2029 identifies the prevention of family violence and the promotion of gender equity as a key priority for collective action.”
The Executive Governance Group includes the Barwon South West Public Health Unit, Brophy Family and Youth Services, Sexual and Family Violence Centre, South West Sport and South West TAFE.
The group also comprises Wannon Water, Borough of Queenscliffe, City of Greater Geelong, Corangamite Shire Council, Warrnambool East Primary School and the Western Victoria Public Health Network.
