Communities step up to prevent violence against women

Australian community groups and sports clubs are being encouraged to take action to reduce violence against women and promote respectful relationships, with applications now open for Community Action Grants.

The Government has committed $3.75 million to fund the grants as part of the National Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and their Children 2010-2022, endorsed by Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments in February.

The Minister for the Status of Women, Kate Ellis, said the Community Action Grants will support projects that help men and women to prevent domestic violence in their communities.

“One in three Australian women experience violence after the age of 15 – in this day and age, in this country, that is just not good enough,” Ms Ellis said.

“It’s time for everyone in the community to step up, and stop this issue being kept behind closed doors.

“Through the Community Action Grants, we will be providing grants of up to $250,000 per project to fund activities over the next three years.

“Community groups and not-for-profit organisations will be able to apply for funding for innovative projects that take action to preventing the problem of violence before it occurs.

“Projects might include training of community leaders, workshops, events, mentoring programs, resources or online activities – in short, any new or creative idea that will engage communities to take action on this issue.”

The program will focus on supporting groups within communities that have specific needs or are particularly vulnerable to high levels of violence, although all community groups are welcome to apply.

The grants are intended to foster a zero-tolerance attitude to violence against women, increase community awareness of the issue and encourage community responsibility.

Separately, recognised national sporting organisations are being invited to develop proposals to establish respectful relationships and anti-violence initiatives through their local sporting clubs.

“Together, these grants will strengthen the ability of communities to discuss the problem of violence against women – but also to take control of solutions,” Ms Ellis said.

Applications close 5pm AEST Monday 30 May 2011.

Application details are on the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs website: www.fahcsia.gov.au.  For further information email CAG@fahcsia.gov.au or call 1300 138 494.