Parramatta Council to host domestic violence forum

Parramatta City Council will host a forum for local government staff from across the State next month to discuss strategies for addressing domestic violence. 

The forum - Stronger & more effective ways to prevent domestic and family violence in our communities – to be held on 2 May, will be the first time council officers from across New South Wales have had the opportunity to come together to exchange information on strategies and programs to address domestic and family violence in their communities.

“Council recognises the significant impact that domestic violence has on many members of the community and we work in partnership with a number of stakeholders to help address the issue,” Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said. 

“I believe that local government is ideally positioned to strengthen and broaden the response to domestic and family violence in our communities. Many councils across the State support, resource and deliver a range of prevention and early intervention strategies and I believe there is an opportunity for council’s to play an even bigger advocacy role to encourage further action on the issue.”

“The forum will be an important opportunity for council officers to share knowledge and hear from key speakers from Victoria and other NSW councils about strategies that are helping to improve lives and safety.”

Domestic Violence NSW Chief Executive Officer Moo Baulch said now is an opportune time for councils to explore the role they can play in addressing the drivers of violence in their local communities.

“Domestic and family violence exists in every community and socio-demographic but it is preventable if we all work together to tackle gender inequality and challenge violence-supportive attitudes. We are excited to be working with Parramatta City Council on this forum and to begin having conversations about effective local council policy and program responses. Councils are a key part of the solution,” Ms Baulch said.

Parramatta City Council also supports and resources a range of services and agencies working to address domestic and family violence. This is done through collaborations and partnerships, holding forums, providing funding through Council’s Community Grants program and helping services to apply for additional funding from other sources.

Late last year Council adopted a new internal policy for staff that recognises the significant impact of domestic violence.

The Domestic and Family Violence Policy aims to encourage any staff member who is experiencing domestic and family violence to come forward for help and support. It includes confidentiality provisions and special leave arrangements for staff who are in a domestic violence situation.