Constituency questions
Western Metropolitan Region
Mr FINN (Western Metropolitan) (12:34): (1738) My constituency question is for the Minister for Health. Domestic violence is a dreadful blight on the western suburbs of Melbourne. Women and children are too often the victims of violence and abuse in a place where they should always feel safe, their own homes. Melbourne’s six lockdowns over 2020 and 2021 have added to the domestic violence numbers significantly. In its previous incarnation as Women’s Health West, GenWest helped victim-survivors of domestic violence in Melbourne’s west for many years. The name change has not changed its role nor has it changed the desperate need GenWest has for greater support, particularly right now. In a recent meeting with the acting CEO of GenWest I heard exactly how dire the situation is. GenWest needs more help in order to meet the needs of an increasing number of people in the west. Minister, will you ensure the forthcoming budget adequately meets these needs?