Gender Equity Victoria (GEN VIC) congratulates the Victorian Labor party on the 2018 election win. The success of the Andrew’s Government is a reflection of its commitment to a fair Victoria and its investment in addressing family violence and promoting gender equity.
The Labor party was a key supporter of GEN VIC’s 100-day pre-election advocacy campaign #vicvotesequity, showing wide-spread support for the advancement of gender equity, the promotion of women’s health, the prevention of violence against women and the development of a sustainable peak body in Victoria. Labor candidates across the state pledged their support for GEN VIC’s vision for equality, wellbeing and freedom from violence for every woman and girl in every community of Victoria.
Reflecting on the election results, GEN VIC Chair Kristine Olaris said, “We are grateful that the Victorian government shares our vision for a gender equal Victoria. It is imperative that we act on this vision because Victorian women face unacceptable levels of family violence, sexual harassment, and discrimination, and many across the state experience barriers to their access to the sexual and reproductive health services they need.
We know that the only way to address the inequalities and violence that women face, is to invest in the primary prevention of violence against women and the advancement of gender equity for women of all backgrounds. This requires long-term commitment and ongoing resourcing. While the election is finished, gender inequality is not.
We look forward to working closely with the Victorian government to ensure that Victoria remains committed to funding the equality, wellbeing and freedom from violence for every women and girl in Victoria.”
Reflecting on the resignation of Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Hon Natalie Hutchins, Olaris said,
“Minister Hutchins has played an outstanding role in bringing gender to the fore and we commend the work she has done for gender equity and the prevention of family violence and all forms of violence against women. She has been keen supporter of GEN VIC and while we are very sad to see her step down from the cabinet, we wish her all the best and look forward to working with her successor.”