Community health workers are confident that Sunbury and the Macedon Ranges will not be left behind by sweeping changes to the state’s family violence support system.
The Royal Commission into Family Violence report, released on Wednesday after a 13-month investigation, was described by Cobaw Community Health chief executive Margaret McDonald as ‘‘exciting and groundbreaking’’.
‘‘This is an opportunity to really shift and change the whole community’s understanding, how we prevent and respond to victims and perpetrators,’’ she said.
The state government said it would implement all 227 recommendations in the report, including the creation of 17 support and safety hubs statewide.
Early intervention services and information sharing will be improved, while more specialists will be available at courts.
Premier Daniel Andrews promised a ‘‘housing blitz’’ for women in crisis and more resources for police, schools and hospitals.
Regional Development Minister Jaala Pulford said priority would be given to people in rural and regional communities, where family violence rates are higher.
MARGARET MCDONALD. PICTURE: SHAWN SMITS
Ms McDonald said a greater focus on prevention and behavioural change programs was welcome.
She said Cobaw’s strong relationships with partner agencies to the north and south would ensure the area does not miss out.
‘‘If they establish something in Bendigo, they will always pull in expertise from outlying areas,’’ she said.
While some critics expressed fears about how the reforms would be paid for, Ms McDonald said it was impossible to put a price on survivors’ lives.
‘‘Any investment is worth it,’’ she said.
‘‘Family violence and the very real impact on children and adults across the community is upper most in our minds.’’
Macedon Ranges survivor Belinda Spence said improvements to crisis housing were essential.
‘‘Many women are not going to leave a situation where they have a roof over their head for a situation where they don’t, no matter how bad it is,’’ she said.
A government spokesman said support and safety hubs would be established in each of the state’s Department of Health and Human Services districts, making it easier for victims to find help quickly. Mobile services may be used to reach outlying communities.
Meanwhile, Macedon Ranges council was last week recognised by Women’s Health Loddon Mallee for its efforts to prevent violence against women.
It was the first council to develop an action plan to prevent violence during and after emergencies, such as bushfires.
