The First Nations communities of Lakes Entrance in Victoria are set to benefit from a new Men’s Wellness Centre, as part of the Albanese Labor Government’s efforts to address domestic and family violence.
Gippsland Lakes Complete Health Limited will receive $2.4 million in funding to set up the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association (LEAHA) Deyettyan Dardiganni Wellness Service project.
The Men’s Wellness Centre will provide a safe space for local men to connect and communicate with Elders, the East Gippsland community, and each other. The program aims to help First Nations men connect with education, housing, healthcare and economic development initiatives that help break the cycle of violence.
This funding is part of a $41.4 million Government investment under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023-2025 to develop 13 new Men’s Wellness Centres for First Nations peoples around Australia.
Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, said providing targeted, community-led support for men is critical to ending gender-based violence in First Nations communities.
“Together with the other 12 Men’s Wellness Centres the Government is funding around Australia, the Lakes Entrance Centre will help us shift the dial on gender-based violence and better support men to keep their families and communities safe,” Minister Rishworth said.
“With its strong focus on connection to community and culture, the Deyettyan Dardiganni Wellness Service shows the importance of programs delivered for and by First Nations peoples in creating real change.
“Through the new Men’s Wellness Centres, we are ensuring First Nations men have access to the strengths-based, culturally safe services and activities they need to break the cycle of violence.”
Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone, said the funding would promote culturally safe practices.
“The Lakes Entrance Centre will support the healing journey of First Nations men and families in Gippsland,” Senator Ciccone said.
“Having an environment where local men can take part in education programs and initiatives is incredibly important.
“That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is investing in the region and is committed to addressing gender-based violence.”
This initiative will also help progress Target 13 under the National Agreement on Closing the Gap 2020-2030 (National Agreement), which aims to reduce all forms of violence against First Nations women and children by at least 50 per cent by 2031.
More information on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023-2025 is available at the Department of Social Services website.
If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family and sexual violence, call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732 or visit www.1800respect.org.au for online chat and video call services.
- Available 24/7: call, text, or online chat
- Mon-Fri, 9am-midnight AEST (except national public holidays): video call (no appointment needed)
If you are concerned about your behaviour or use of violence, you can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au
Feeling worried or no good? Connect with 13YARN Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporters on 13 92 76 available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone, or visit www.13yarn.org.au No shame, no judgement, safe place to yarn.