State Government implores towns to apply for men’s behaviour programs with Bunbury initiative established

The State Government has called on more towns to apply for programs to break the cycle of domestic violence, with one being established in Bunbury. Organisations can apply to deliver two new men’s behavioural change programs in regional WA, with the State Government confirming the tender process is under way in Bunbury. The programs — set soon for Northam and Albany as well — will aim to provide evidence-based services to men who use coercive, controlling or abusive behaviour in their intimate and family relationships. Perpetrators will be supported to address the underlying attitudes, values and beliefs leading to violence, and increased monitoring and safety planning work will be done with victim-survivors. Prevention of Family and Domestic Violence Minister Sabine Winton said similar programs were crucial to reducing domestic violence in WA. “Men’s behaviour change programs are an important intervention to break the cycle of abuse by making men who choose to use violence take accountability for their actions,” she said. “Having visited men’s behaviour change programs and heard participants’ stories, I know how effective these programs can be in challenging unacceptable behaviour and giving people the tools to change. “I encourage eligible organisations to apply to deliver these crucial programs.” It comes after the State Government committed $3.1 million over two years for three new men’s behaviour change programs last November. Men who are concerned about their behaviour towards others, or those who are victim-survivors of family and domestic violence, can contact the Men’s Domestic Violence Helpline on 1800 000 599.