Preventing family violence

Glen Eira Prevention of Family Violence: Tomorrow Man 

Conversations that matter: an evening for men was held on Tuesday 19 November, to launch the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign.

Facilitated by Tomorrow Man, with special guest Collingwood Football Club captain, Darcy Moore, the event provided a safe and welcoming space, where men and male-identifying individuals, explored their own views and experiences, challenged stereotypes, and committed to creating more respectful, supportive communities for themselves, their families and their peers.

Almost 100 people attended the event which was tailored to focus on men’s experiences and foster an environment where participants felt comfortable sharing their stories and challenges. The evening gave participants tools and skills to improve their mental health to build stronger connections between one another and those they care about.

The event received overwhelming positive feedback from participants, with many saying they had learnt a lot and wished to be involved in other similar events in the future.

Facilitated by Tomorrow Man and supported by Respect Victoria, Safe and Equal, Glen Eira City Council, City of Port Phillip and City of Stonnington.

Support Services

The following support services are available to reach out to for assistance.

• Lifeline: 13 11 14
  Counselling, information and referrals for personal crisis
• Mensline: 1300 789 978
  24/7 Support for men
• Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
  Advice and support for depression and anxiety.
• Headspace: 1800 650 890
  Chat, email or speak with a qualified professional.
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
  Counselling for anyone suicidal or affected by suicide
• Victim Assistance Program:  1800 819 817
• Advice and support for men

In an emergency, please call 000 immediately.

Glen Eira Prevention of Family Violence roundtable

As a diverse and inclusive community, we collaborate with key partners on the prevention and intervention of family violence.

In May 2024 we hosted the Glen Eira Prevention of Family Violence roundtable. This provided an opportunity for local agencies to work together.

The Hon. Vicki Ward MP, Victorian Minister for Prevention of Family Violence, attended the roundtable along with leaders in the family violence sector including representatives from:

• Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE)
• Peninsula Community Legal Centre (PCLC)
• Safe and Equal
• Good Shepherd
• Victoria Police Family Violence Investigation Unit.

We looked at effective outcomes in response to ongoing incidents. We also covered the impact of family violence for women, children, families and our broader community. The key discussion points included:

• proactive measures and support programs
• local, expertise-driven solutions
• engaging with young people to shift societal attitudes
• extensive time and resources devoted to family violence cases
• better communication about available interventions, consistent funding and accessible services
• coordinated community response
• sustained and long-term funding
• coordinated efforts across all levels of government and community organisations.

We will use these valuable insights to inform the focus of our Glen Eira Prevention of Family Violence Stakeholder Working Group. The insights will also support our Advocacy Priorities.

View the Roundtable graphic recording

Panel event: Media impact on gender-based violence

Watch our panel event video to learn about the media’s role in gender inequality and how the media can encourage respect and equality. 

As part of last year’s 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence campaign, a Panel event: Media impact on gender-based violence.

We had the opportunity to hear from expert panellists including:

• Niall McDonagh, acting CEO, Glen Eira City Council (host)
• Rana Hussain, CEO of Good.Human
• Paul Bertoncello, Victoria Police
• Lauren Zappa, Women's Health Victoria
• Rebekah Hayden, Our Watch
• Alex Dentener, The Men’s Project an Initiative of Jesuit Social Services
• Danielle McCaffrey Women’s Health in the South East (WHISE).

The panel explored women in the media and how the media influences and reinforces gender inequality, a precursor to gender-based violence. Through the discussion, we learnt:

• The role media plays in addressing gender inequality and challenging stereotypes for all women and non-binary people.
• Changes in the way the media talks about respect and equality, including advertising settings, that would foster a more constructive narrative and promote a culture of gender equality.
• Why gendered language matters when it comes to sexual and family violence.
• What can be done to challenge and reshape the media’s reinforcement of rigid ideas around masculinities and manhood.

This initiative reflects our commitment to a safe, healthy and inclusive community that is free from all forms of family violence.

If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).