Thursday, 15 August 2024

 Steve McGHIE (Melton) (10:15): Last Tuesday I had the privilege of visiting the Brimbank–Melton Orange Door with the Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward. The Melton Orange Door handles an average of 217 referrals weekly, mostly from Victoria Police, with self-referrals significantly increasing since its start in 2022 and now being the second-highest type of referral. Over the past 22 months the service has shown its value to our community, with 27 per cent of referrals last year coming directly from individuals seeking help. The opportunity to speak directly to caseworkers and staff highlighted the importance of continued funding for this organisation and the communities they assist. I want to thank the hub manager Tilly O’Rourke, director Alysha Batty and the entire Brimbank–Melton team for their vital work supporting victim-survivors. I also extend my gratitude to Minister Ward for her continued advocacy and efforts in the prevention of family violence portfolio.