The resources on this page provide information about the prevention of family violence during the coronavirus pandemic.
Information
HOW TO REDUCE RISK OF INFECTION:
Victorians should act now to reduce the risk of infection from coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
The situation is changing rapidly so please visit the Department of Health and Human Services website regularly for updated information.
For current measures on physical distancing visit https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus
We know that during this time of added pressures and restricted freedoms the incidence of violence against women will increase. Evidence tells us that the cost of such violence is incredibly heavy with severe and long-term impacts on women’s health and wellbeing. We also know that there are particular groups of women across our communities who are likely to experience much higher rates of such violence due to multiple layers of discrimination and these include aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women with disabilities, LGBTIQ and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.
VicHealth is strongly committed to the prevention of violence against women through the promotion of gender equality as the evidence tells us this is the underlying driver of such violence. This work requires long term investment in all those places that we live, work, learn and play.
Along with many of our partner organisations we want to ensure that women, their supportive family and friends, the health sector and our communities more broadly have the factual information and practical support required to ensure women can receive the help they need immediately.
Useful tools
Victoria Police have created videos in a range of languages to encourage people, particularly from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, to seek help if they are experiencing family violence.
Respect Victoria has created resources and messaging designed to bring Victorians into the discussion about family violence.
Please see the following links for further information and resources from our partner organisations:
- https://www.dvrcv.org.au/help-advice/coronavirus-covid-19-and-family-violence
- https://www.thelookout.org.au/family-violence-workers/covid-19-and-family-violence
- https://www.ourwatch.org.au/resource/our-watch-statement-on-the-covid-19-crisis
For women requiring support the 1800RESPECT service will continue, with counsellors available 24/7 on phone and web chat.
If it is an emergency or if someone is in danger, please call 000 immediately.
Downloads
| Asset | Institution | Description |
| COVID-19 and primary prevention of violence against women | Our Watch | This report provides information on the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis on the drivers of violence against women and opportunities for a transformative recovery |
| Social media tiles | Victorian Government |
These images can be used on digital platforms to provide information about family violence services. |
| Together for Respect at Home | Eastern Domestic Violence Service |
Downloadable reports and assets that promote respectful relationships and positive mental health and wellbeing strategies. For more information, please contact Brianna Myors on [email protected] or 9259 4200 |
|
Social media banners |
Respect Victoria | Messaging about family violence as part of the Respect Each Other campaign |
