Pledge to end violence

Cardinia Shire has pledged to prevent and end family violence through a new initiative Together We Can and hopes community members will follow the lead.

Women and the Prevention of Violence against Women Minister Fiona Richardson visited Cardinia Shire last week to meet with mayor Jodie Owen, council staff and partners of the Together We Can initiative.

Ms Richardson was briefed on how Together We Can is building a safer place for women and children by stopping, preventing and ending family violence and heard speakers on the opportunities the whole community has to make this happen.

Impressed by the innovative model used, and reinforcing her commitment to continue to advocate for the rights of women and children, the minister signed the pledge.

Cr Owen said she was grateful for the minister’s support for Together We Can and its ‘no ego – no logo’ philosophy.

“As we work locally to stop the violence, we also need strong partnerships with our state and federal governments to support us. We know when we put aside our individual agendas, and replace them with a common one, we will work differently, try new ways and succeed where we have not before.

“If you care for children and want to keep them safe, and you want parents to be role models for healthy and respectful relationships, then I encourage you to sign the pledge.

“Every person living, learning and or working in Cardinia Shire is encouraged to commit to the Together We Can common agenda to stop, prevent and end family violence by signing the pledge,” Cr Owen said.