$2.4M funding for First Nations Men’s Wellness Centre in Lakes Entrance. Ending violence, offering support, education, and safety.
A significant step towards improving the safety and wellbeing of First Nations communities in Lakes Entrance, Victoria, has been announced, with the Albanese Labor Government investing $2.4 million in a new Men’s Wellness Centre. The initiative, spearheaded by Gippsland Lakes Complete Health Limited, will establish the Lakes Entrance Aboriginal Health Association (LEAHA) Deyettyan Dardiganni Wellness Service project, offering a crucial safe space for local men.
The centre aims to provide a platform for First Nations men to connect with Elders, the broader East Gippsland community, and each other, fostering an environment of support and understanding. Crucially, the program will facilitate access to education, housing, healthcare, and economic development opportunities, all designed to break the cycle of domestic and family violence.
This funding forms part of a broader $41.4 million government investment under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023-2025, which will establish 13 new Men’s Wellness Centres across Australia. Minister for Social Services, Amanda Rishworth, emphasised the importance of community-led support, stating, “Together with the other 12 Men’s Wellness Centres the Government is funding around Australia, the Lakes Entrance Centre will help us shift the dial on gender-based violence and better support men to keep their families and communities safe.”
She further highlighted the culturally sensitive approach of the Deyettyan Dardiganni Wellness Service. “With its strong focus on connection to community and culture, the Deyettyan Dardiganni Wellness Service shows the importance of programs delivered for and by First Nations peoples in creating real change,” Minister Rishworth explained. “Through the new Men’s Wellness Centres, we are ensuring First Nations men have access to the strengths-based, culturally safe services and activities they need to break the cycle of violence.”
Federal Labor Senator for Victoria, Raff Ciccone, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the centre’s role in promoting culturally safe practices. “The Lakes Entrance Centre will support the healing journey of First Nations men and families in Gippsland,” Senator Ciccone said. “Having an environment where local men can take part in education programs and initiatives is incredibly important. That’s why the Albanese Labor Government is investing in the region and is committed to addressing gender-based violence.”
The initiative also aligns with Target 13 of the National Agreement on Closing the Gap 2020-2030, which aims to reduce all forms of violence against First Nations women and children by at least 50 per cent by 2031. This commitment reflects a comprehensive approach to tackling the complex issue of domestic and family violence within First Nations communities.
The new Men’s Wellness centre will be a vital resource for the Lakes Entrance community. It will offer a place for men to build connection, learn new skills, and access the support they need. The government’s investment demonstrates a serious commitment to improving the lives of First Nations people and creating safer communities.
For further information on the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Action Plan 2023-2025, readers can visit the Department of Social Services website.
Anyone experiencing or at risk of domestic, family, or sexual violence can contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, or visit www.1800respect.org.au. Men concerned about their behaviour can contact the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 or visit www.ntv.org.au. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support, contact 13YARN on 13 92 76 or visit www.13yarn.org.au.
Also read: Human rights ignored: First Nations children deserve better
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