We acknowledge Country
The Victorian Government acknowledges Victorian Aboriginal people as the First Peoples and Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land and water we depend on. We acknowledge and respect that Aboriginal communities have a rich heritage built on a strong social and cultural foundation that has endured for 60,000 years. We also acknowledge the significant disruptions and ongoing pain caused by colonisation.
We acknowledge the vital leadership role of Aboriginal communities, especially women, in addressing and preventing family and sexual violence. We are dedicated to working with Aboriginal people to eliminate family violence in all communities.
We want to rectify past wrongs and acknowledge the ongoing harm caused by colonisation. To this end, we are committed to self-determination and to supporting Truth and Treaty processes.
Commitment to supporting those affected by family violence
The Victorian Government acknowledges and supports those who have experienced violence, including adults of all ages, children, young people and members of our workforce. The work we do to prevent and respond to family and sexual violence is for them. It is guided by their experience, expertise and advocacy.
We remember and pay respects to those who did not survive and extend our respects to all of those who have lost loved ones to family and sexual violence.
We keep in mind all those who have been, or continue to be, affected by family or sexual violence, and recognise their continued courage and strength.
Family and sexual violence services and support
If you have experienced family violence or sexual assault and need immediate or ongoing assistance, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) to talk to a counsellor from the National Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence hotline.
For confidential support and information, contact Safe Steps’ 24/7 family violence response line on 1800 015 188.
If you have an immediate concern for your safety or that of someone else, please contact the police in your state or territory, or call Triple Zero (000) for emergency help.
In Victoria, The Orange Door provides help for people who are experiencing family violence. It is not an emergency service. You can find your nearest location on The Orange Door’s Support near you web page.
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