As the branch of government closest to the people, it is the role of the nation’s local government bodies to take a stand against violence against women, according to the President of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) Bill McArthur.

“When you think about the investment that governments place on physical activity, alcohol, smoking and cholesterol, it is shocking to learn that violence from men is the leading contributor to preventable ill health, death and disability in Victorian women aged 15 to 44.”

Launching the Prevention of Violence Against Women – Leading change in the Victorian local government sector, a handbook showcasing efforts of eight Victorian councils in countering violence against women, Cr McArthur said now was the time to act on the issue.

“And this is just the tip of the iceberg. There is much more occurring in Victorian councils than what is able to be covered in the handbook. But it outlines why council involvement is so important to this issue and provides recommendations and tangible case studies that can be adapted for use elsewhere.

“Preventing violence against women should be on the agenda of every single council, because with odds like one in three, we’re bound to know a woman experiencing abuse. It is our duty to change this culture,” he said. 

The full report can be found here