On Friday 10 December, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence came to an end. The international campaign encourages action to end violence against women and girls.
One in three Australian women have experienced physical and/or sexual violence perpetrated by a man they know, with greater impacts on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, women from migrant backgrounds and women with a disability. Many more have experienced other forms of violence including non-physical abuse and control.
Family violence is the single largest driver of homelessness for women, who are often accompanied by children. When a woman leaves a violent relationship, she often leaves the family home – and with limited affordable housing available, victim-survivors of family violence often become homeless.
The cost of housing in Hobsons Bay has increased significantly and affordable rental stock has declined. We need more affordable local housing so people impacted by violence in our community don’t need to leave their jobs, schools, communities and support networks to start anew.
The Victorian Government’s Big Housing Build – Victoria’s largest-ever investment in social and affordable housing – is a good start. Council has made affordable housing one of its advocacy priorities. Family violence prevention and affordable housing are also included in Council’s recently released Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan.
Addressing challenges such as family violence and homelessness demands meaningful action from all levels of government as well as our community. Progress depends upon each of us standing in solidarity with folks who have fallen on hard times: reflecting on the nature of the problems, pursuing genuine and empathetic connection, and committing to addressing all forms of oppression – including violence against women, sexism, racism, homophobia and transphobia.
Ultimately, this is about creating the community we want to live in. I’m hopeful about the opportunities for progress that lie ahead in Hobsons Bay.
To learn more about Affordable Housing in Hobsons Bay visit www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/affordablehousing
If you or someone you know has experienced violence, they can call 1800 RESPECT or if you or someone you know is at risk of using violence, contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.
