By Casey Neill
A Springvale support service will use a $66,000 boost to tackle family violence.
South East Community Links (SECL) received a State Government grant to support its diversity program, to provide financial counselling and mentoring to women at risk of economic abuse.
SECL CEO Rhonda Cumberland said the funding, announced on Thursday 8 December, would help to close one of the biggest gaps for women escaping family violence.
“Women need support to disentangle their finances from a violent relationship,” she said.
“One important step in this process is ensuring women have control over money that is rightfully theirs in the first place.
“We aim to grow this program over the next two years, and would welcome any additional support from the finance industry and the private sector.”
Dr Cumberland said different cultures had diverse ways of organising money.
“It is vital that we understand these differences and ensure that gender equality is applied to financial decision-making,” she said.
“Research tells us that women spend money on food, education and children’s needs.
“That is why every dollar that can be spent by women helps strengthen families and communities.”
Prevention of Family Violence Minister Fiona Richardson said all communities experienced family violence and gender inequality differently.
“These grants will empower women to be leaders in their communities and create generational change,” she said.
“Providing culturally appropriate, tailored support is crucial if we are to respond to the diverse needs and experiences of different communities impacted by family violence.”
SECL was established last year by bringing together Dandenong Community Advisory Bureau (DCAB), Springvale Community Aid and Advice Bureau (SCAAB), Youth Links and youth service Southern Ethnic Advisory and Advocacy Council (SEAAC).
