An Aboriginal-led service to support locals affected by family violence has been officially opened in Geelong.
The Aboriginal Access Point Barwon Service will be operated by the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative.
It is fully staffed by an Aboriginal workforce, providing culturally safe support for locals.
Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward said it was important to provide the safe space.
“Being able to go to a culturally safe space, where your culture is being respected and where you are being respected is really important,” she said.
“We know that particularly women will come forward, if they know it is safe for them.”
The local service is the second in Victoria, with the state government looking to put a third in the Mallee, in Victoria’s north-west.
