Victoria Against Violence is a 16–day, community–based education and awareness initiative about family and gender violence from November 25 to December 10. South Gippsland Hospital, as a member of the South Coast Primary Care Partnership, will be hosting a free, leadership MATE workshop for everyone in the community focused on preventing family violence. This session will empower participants with the tools to feel confident to challenge attitudes, beliefs and behaviours that normalise gender based violence on Monday 4 Dec 3.30-5pm. For more information contact rachel.sands@sghs.com.au or call the Community Health Centre on 56839780.

1 in 3 women and girls experience violence in their lifetime. It’s time to stand up as a Victorian and support #VICforWomen. Violence affects too many families in Victoria, and we all have a role to play in preventing violence in our community. The campaign gives the whole Victorian community a voice, inviting individuals, families, organisations, businesses, students and all levels of government to stand together to prevent family violence and promote gender equality.

During the 16 Days of Activism, individuals, organisations and workplaces are being asked to be visible against violence by “going orange”. That means wearing orange, and ‘oranging’ your home, neighbourhood, workplace and sharing it using #OrangeDay.

Businesses across South Gippsland and Bass Coast will receive an ‘Orange Pack’ including streamers, balloon, printed resources and other items and are being encouraged to display the orange merchandise in their windows.

If you or someone you know is experiencing family violence, help is available. Call 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732. In an emergency call 000.