Holistic plan for family violence

Goolum Goolum Aboriginal Co-operative chairman John Gorton has welcomed a new holistic approach to help indigenous people affected by family violence and strengthen relationships with police.

Goolum Goolum and Victoria Police have launched new Wimmera Koori Family Violence Police Protocols.

“The document shows how Victoria Police members will respond to family violence,” Mr Gorton said.

“It is a holistic approach – not just for the families, but also the perpetrators. Through the protocols, both are offered support. For the perpetrators, it might include being referred to behavioural-change programs or anger management.

“The protocols involve a

Mr Gorton said the protocols would strengthen the relationship between the region’s Aboriginal community and police.

“This is very significant and will affect the way police are going to interact with Aboriginals experiencing family violence and how they approach them,” he said.

“It will lead to better outcomes for step-by-step approach.” all involved.”

Superintendent Paul Margetts said the protocols would bring Wimmera police response to family violence in line with state family violence protocols.

“They also take into account the cultural sensitivities within indigenous communities,” he said.

“A big part of the protocols is training for police members, which was done on the morning of the launch.”

The launch, at Horsham Angling Club, included guest speakers, a Welcome to Country by Aunty Hazel Mcdonald and a smoking ceremony.

Mr Gorton said Aunty Hazel presented a painting to the police on behalf of the region’s indigenous community.

“We also presented a painting that symbolises unity between police and the Aboriginal community, which was presented by members of our KOOKAS homework club,” he said.

Mr Gorton said the Grampians Regional Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee drove the project.

Other organisations involved in developing the protocols include Wimmera Uniting Care, Grampians Community Health, Grampians Indigenous Family Violence Regional Action Group, Barengi Gadjin Land Council and the Department of Health and Human Services.