Victorian Department of Families, Fairness & Housing

❤️ Free pads and tampons. Period. ❤️ 64% of people who need period products struggle to afford them – that’s why we are providing free access to pads and tampons across Victoria.  It’s a nation-leading initiative and we are SO excited to have launched the test phase. Starting today, we will: 🟠 install 50 vending machines in public places like cultural institutions, hospitals, courts, TAFEs, public libraries and staffed train stations  ❗️And there’s more to come in 2025, with free pads and tampons in up to 700 locations across Victoria. Learn more about the program at: https://lnkd.in/gDE7p5mv

Moving out can be daunting. If you want to step out of the nest this summer, YouthNav is a life skills resource designed to help young people plan for their future. Check out YouthNav: https://lnkd.in/g7cu3tT3

To strengthen and support the family violence, sexual assault and child wellbeing workforce, the Victorian Government launched the Best Practice Supervision Guidelines. These guidelines support organisations in providing regular and effective supervision to their employees. To further help organisations to use the Best Practice Supervision Guidelines, a new series of videos and discussion guides are now available. There are five videos in the series, which draw on key information and examples from the guidelines, including: - Introducing the Best Practice Supervision Guidelines - Role of the organisation, supervisor and supervisee - First supervision session - Sharing lived experience - Reflective supervision These videos and discussion guides can be used during individual, group or peer supervision sessions, as well as staff inductions, policy development meetings and supervision training. For more information about the guidelines, videos and discussion guides, visit https://lnkd.in/gcjmVrRS

Remarkable women like Barbara Rae deserve to have their story told and celebrated for years to come! 🎨👏🎉 Barbara left her mark on Australia’s sporting world as the winning captain and top scorer of the first women’s cricket match, held in 1874 in Bendigo on Dja Dja Wurrung Country. A significant milestone in the history of women’s sport, the match was watched by thousands and at a time when women required permission to play in ‘male only’ sports. Barbara’s story has inspired one of six public artworks located right here in Victoria, as part of round two of the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program. 🌟 A valuable reminder to Victorian women and future generations of what’s possible – if you can see it, you can be it. 💚👀 To find out more of this significant milestone in the history of women’s sport, visit: https://lnkd.in/gb95a48n Victorian Women’s Public Art Program is closing the gap for women and diverse representation in art. 🙌 #VWPAP #BepARTofChange

These senior Victorians are making a difference across our state! Meet five award recipients from the 2024 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards. ⭐ Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year⭐ After working as a psychiatrist for 25 years, Manjula’s drive led her to pursue meaningful change in the prevention of family violence. Her ongoing commitment, insight and passion has left an incredible legacy, with Victoria being the first state in Australia to enact anti-dowry legislation. ⭐ Promotion of Multiculturalism Award ⭐ Srini is a leader and advocate for multicultural communities across the state, always ready to help people in need. He was Commissioner for the Victorian Multicultural Commission and a member of the South Asian Communities Ministerial Advisory Committee. ⭐ Healthy and Active Living Award ⭐ After a 30-year career as a librarian, Gail continues to share her passion for lifelong learning through volunteering. As president of Family History Connections Blackburn for the last decade, Gail has helped thousands of people keep their minds active, connect with others and participate in their local communities. ⭐ Veteran Community Award ⭐ Over 28 years, Bruce has supported thousands of veterans and widows as a Senior Compensation Advocate for the Victoria State Branch of the RSL. His experience is called upon across the state and throughout the country. ⭐ Ageing Well Award ⭐ Virginia is a dedicated volunteer with many years of experience supporting people to transition from prison to the community, helping to break the cycle of reoffending. Her commitment to walking alongside offenders post-release helps to create a healthier, more connected community. 👏 Stay tuned for more as we meet all the amazing individuals who received awards. 🔗 Learn more about the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards recipients: https://lnkd.in/gb4MGp3i #VicSenioroftheYearAwards

🎉 We’re proud to partner with Midsumma Festival to celebrate diversity and inclusion at Victoria's Pride! On Sunday, 9 February, Gertrude and Smith Streets will transform into an all-day, all-ages block party, showcasing the strength and vibrancy of Victoria’s LGBTIQA+ communities. Highlights include: ✅ Live performances from local and international artists ✅ Multiple music stages ✅ Delicious food and drink from local businesses ✅ Shopfront activations and cultural experiences Victoria's Pride is a chance for everyone to reflect on our shared journey toward equality while celebrating through inspirational arts, community connections and cultural festivities. 📍 Gertrude and Smith Streets, Fitzroy & Collingwood 📅 Sunday, 9 February Join us to make this an iconic and unforgettable event! 🌈 https://lnkd.in/gMv6jQCd #VictoriasPride #Inclusion #LGBTIQCommunities 📷 Artwork design © Elwyn Murray

Level up your skills with 80+ free TAFE courses. 🎓📚 Whether you are just starting out or looking to switch things up, this is your chance to study without additional financial stress. Any Australian citizen, Australian permanent resident or New Zealand citizen living in Victoria can now enrol regardless of their prior skills and qualifications. What are you waiting for? Find your course today: https://lnkd.in/geEVRJR

Inspiring, fierce, passionate… do you know someone who should be nominated for the Victorian Honour Roll of Women? 🤔 At their induction ceremony, we asked women on the 2024 Honour Roll how they would describe their fellow inductees, and their answers were 😚👌. The Honour Roll is an opportunity to recognise those who show remarkable leadership and excellence. It elevates the incredible contributions of women, including trans women, and gender diverse people in Victoria. The 2024 inductees have made outstanding contributions to make Victoria a fairer and better place for us all. They’re ready to pass the baton to an equally exceptional 2025 cohort. 🏃♀️ Nominations are now open for the Victorian Honour Roll of Women 2025: https://lnkd.in/gYPZAjDR #HonourHer #CelebrateVicWomen

🕯️ Remembering Samantha Murphy 🕯️ Today marks one year since the disappearance of Ballarat woman, Samantha Murphy. Our thoughts remain with her family, friends, and the Ballarat community during this difficult time. This sombre milestone is an important time for all of us to reflect on what we can do to help end violence against women. For the community of Ballarat, there will be opportunities to participate in the Ballarat Saturation Model, which aims to address and prevent family violence by strengthening local support networks and responses. To learn more about the Ballarat Saturation Model and how you can get involved visit Respect Victoria. https://ow.ly/elLM50USWyW Everyone deserves to feel safe at home and in their community. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available. Safe Steps – Call 24/7 on 1800 015 188 The Orange Door – Open weekdays 9–5 (closed public holidays) https://ow.ly/He1R50USWyX Men’s Referral Service – If you’re concerned about your behaviour or that of a friend, call 1300 766 491 000 – Call emergency services if you or someone you know is in immediate danger.

Raise your voice… 📣 🎤 It’s not just the sun beaming this summer! It’s your time to shine! ✨ From signing petitions to getting involved in advocacy, make your voice heard this summer by checking out YouthNav. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/g7cu3tT3