September 13, 2016

Romsey says no to family violence

Five prominent Romsey businesses and associations have come on board the Macedon Ranges "Say NO to Family Violence" campaign.

Joining almost fifty other local businesses or associations across the electorate, Romsey CWA, Romsey Football Netball Club, Macedon Ranges Meat Specialist, Kidzone Outside School Care and Romsey SUPA IGA have all joined the campaign to raise awareness of family violence in their local community.

Ms Thomas said the aim of the "Say NO to family violence" campaign is to raise awareness about the gendered dimensions of family violence and to send a clear message that it will not be tolerated in our community.

Ms Thomas’ visit to Romsey coincided with the Andrews Labor Government announcement of a $1.75million investment to support victims of financial abuse.

Financial abuse is a form of family violence. Perpetrators often take full control of their victim’s savings and spending, rendering them financially dependent.

Thanks to the funding, victims who suffer financially at the hands of perpetrators will have access to new specially trained financial counsellors.

The financial counsellors will help those in abusive relationships by negotiating with creditors and debt collectors, helping to protect assets from repossession and helping victims access financial hardship programs.

These initiatives align with recommendations of the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

This new funding is in addition to the $7.8 million provided by the Andrews Labor Government for the Financial Counselling Program run by Consumer Affairs Victoria.

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas MP
"I would like to thank all of the Romsey businesses who have recently come on board and encourage all groups in the community to show leadership and stand together with me on this important issue."

"Family violence takes many forms. These ground breaking initiatives targeting financial abuse will go a long way to helping victims and those at risk in Romsey and surrounding areas."

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