By Jena Carr
Two Geelong community sporting projects will continue to help prevent violence against women and families, thanks to state government support.
Community-based sports projects ‘An Equal Playing Field’ and ‘Leaders on and off the Field’ received funding through the $1.2 million Preventing Violence Through Sports Grants program.
Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West partnered with other organisations on both projects. Chief executive Jodie Hill said sport had a “strong impact within the community”.
“We can see right now that Australia is in a crisis following recent events which has been intolerable against violence this year,” she said.
“We’re lucky to be funded given the challenging budget we find ourselves in, and it has allowed us to continue our work to get some action against violence.
“Anything we can do and anyone we can activate to act against violence is important and…all the different methods like sport need to continue as they are our weapons against violence.”
Minister for Community Sport Ros Spence said the program promoted a culture that prevented violence against women and families.
“These projects run by sporting clubs across Victoria play a key role in addressing inequality and promoting safe environments for everyone,” she said.
“Our community sporting clubs play a vital role in shifting attitudes and promoting positive cultures in local communities that are respectful and free from violence.”
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward said the grants supported sporting groups to unite people, shape culture and challenge behaviours that could lead to violence.
“Sport has the power to influence and shape positive community attitudes and behaviours which is why the Preventing Violence Through Sports Grants is critically important,” she said.
“We are continuing to support clubs in creating respectful and inclusive environments for all members and changing the culture of violence against women and families.”
Visit sport.vic.gov.au for more information about the grants program and the organisations running projects.
Help is available through 1800Respect on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
