Family violence

If you or someone you know is experiencing any form of violence and need support, you can find specific, access local information via the Central Highlands Integrated Family Violence Committee service directory.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or requires Police attendance, call 000.

Through the Council Plan and Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021-2025, Council acknowledges and commits to preventing all forms of violence. Council has adopted the Hepburn Shire Council Prevention of Violence Against Women and Children Leadership Statement(PDF, 219KB), which is explained in this video.

Violence can occur in many forms, including physical (e.g. assault), psychological (e.g. coercion or bullying), sexual violence and through forms of deprivation or neglect.  Multiple forms of violence may occur at once, all of which affect people or groups in communities in different ways. 

Instances of crimes against a person are significantly and overwhelming in the form of family violence and violence against women.

• Violence against women has far-reaching negative impacts on the health and wellbeing of women, children, families and communities.
• Women from diverse backgrounds, such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women or women with disability, are more likely to experience higher rates of violence.
• Addressing the underlying cause of men’s violence against women is key to preventing it.  Research indicates the key drivers include beliefs and behaviours reflecting disrespect for women; low support for gender equality; and an adherence to rigid gender roles and identities. 

The Central Highlands Integrated Family Violence Committee has a lot of resources and information on their website, including a service directory.