Djirra is calling on all major political parties to commit to fund Djirra’s Aboriginal Women’s Centre ahead of the Victorian election in November with the launch of its campaign Strong, Safe, Together.
In Victoria, Aboriginal women are 45 times more likely to experience family violence. Family violence is also the central issue driving the removal of Aboriginal children, as well as homelessness, criminalisation and poor health outcomes (including suicide) of Aboriginal women.
Building on 24 years of evidence, Djirra’s Aboriginal Women’s Centre is a self-determined solution designed to save lives and money caused by the statewide crisis of family violence. It will enable access to culturally-safe legal assistance, case management, counselling, prevention, early intervention healing and connection – alongside opportunities for Aboriginal women to lead and build economic security and financial independence.
Djirra’s Aboriginal Women’s Centre is one part of the investment needed to keep Aboriginal women and children Strong, Safe and Together.
This election, Djirra is also calling for investment in equitable regional access to Djirra’s full suite of life saving services, and the establishment of Djirra’s child protection notification and referral system so that Aboriginal women have early access to a legal advocate, as soon as Child Protection becomes involved.
Quotes attributable to Antoinette Braybrook AM, CEO of Djirra:
“Djirra is calling all major political parties to commit to invest in Djirra’s vision of a dedicated Aboriginal Women’s Centre ahead of the state election in November.”
“As Aboriginal women we have the knowledge, the leadership and the vision for what it takes to keep ourselves, our children and future generations Strong, Safe and Together. Our solutions save lives and save money.”
“Djirra’s Aboriginal Women’s Centre will be more than just a building, creating new possibilities for Aboriginal women’s personal safety and economic security.”
“Aboriginal women will lead and gain financial independence, children will thrive in culture and identity while families will be strengthened through a unique combination of healing, safety, justice and community coming together.”
“Aboriginal women at risk of family violence know what we need – a dedicated safe and self-determined place of our own. The Yoorrook Justice Commission recommended the establishment of Aboriginal Women’s Centres. Now is the time to make it a reality.”
“Djirra invites all Victorians to be part of our vision by supporting us to make change. By investing and walking alongside us as we create a future where all Aboriginal women and children are Strong, Safe and Together.”
For more information visit our Key Calls page.
