A major Geelong-based community service organisation has welcomed the announcement of continued funding for a dedicated family violence support program.
Not-for-profit agency Meli will receive a share of a $180 million federal and state government funding package that will allow its specialist ASPIRE program to continue providing support to young people experiencing family violence.
The program, launched in 2023, focuses on early intervention, helping young people aged 16 to 21 stay safe, understand their risks and remain connected to education, legal assistance and stable housing.
Meli chief executive Robyn Hayles said the funding arrived at a critical time for young people in regional communities.
“Young people are navigating increasingly complex pressures – from family violence to limited housing options – and those living outside metropolitan areas often face extra barriers when seeking help,” she said.
“This funding strengthens our ability to keep delivering the kind of specialist, trauma‑aware support that helps young people feel safer today and more hopeful about tomorrow.”
Operating across Geelong, Colac, Little River, Bannockburn and Teesdale, the program provides family violence specialists to existing youth homelessness services.
The funding is provided as part of the Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses 2025-30 Federation Funding Agreement, which sees the federal and state governments partner to deliver the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.
Visit meli.org.au for more information on Meli’s programs.
