Thursday, 20 September 2018

 Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) (17:14): (15 040) My last adjournment matter is, most appropriately, for the Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence and concerns support networks for victims of family violence. The action I seek is that the minister ensure greater access to support networks for people with poor or no English skills who are experiencing family violence. As I have said many times in this place, unfortunately Casey has the highest levels of family violence in this state.

Recently I was contacted by Elaine Smith, who has worked extensively within the newly arrived migrant community. The establishment of the Women’s Friendship Cafe in Hampton Park was only made possible by Elaine’s drive and commitment but above all her compassion and kindness. She has done amazing work helping women from all backgrounds and circumstances, often in very troubled times. She described to me that a number of women who are part of this community struggle to navigate the current support services due to their lack of English skills. This is of concern for both of us as it means there are women out there who are feeling isolated and believe they cannot share their experiences and seek support. We know they are putting themselves and their families at risk as their safety and wellbeing is being undermined.

I am very proud of the steps this government has taken towards ending family violence in the state but, as I have said before, there is always more that we can do. Elaine pointed out to me that the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse used professional writers — they made them available to help make the personal stories of victims readable and coherent. Methods like this would go a long way to ensuring that the victims of family violence from diverse cultures and backgrounds and who have limited English skills can have their voices heard. I look forward to hearing from the minister about what we can do to make sure everyone feels they can seek help and support if they are experiencing family violence.