Violence prevention workshops promote family harmony

Men are being equipped to promote harmony within their homes and their communities thanks to a series of domestic violence workshops run by Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) Multicultural Health.

Men from African, Indian, Afghan and Arabic-speaking communities were invited to take part in ‘Family Harmony’ workshops run in partnership with WSLHD Integrated Violence Protection Response Service, Blacktown police, Sydwest Multicultural Services and Mt Druitt Ethnic Communities Agency.

While domestic violence is a serious issue across Australia, Multicultural Health program officer Murad Hossain explained it is a particularly sensitive issue to discuss within culturally and linguistically diverse groups.

“This is the first time we have run specific programs for these cultural groups to gauge their understanding of domestic violence and its impact on individuals, families and societies,” Murad said.

“The focus was on understanding the problem and how these men can be leaders in their community, to be positive role models, raise awareness and speak out against violence.

“It was encouraging to see so many men attend and say they wanted to learn more and share the information with their communities.”

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call triple-zero (000).

For more information and supporting concerning domestic violence, please contact:

• Domestic Violence Line – 1800 656 463
• Child Protection Helpline – 13 21 11
• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Integrated Violence Protection Response Service – 4734 2512
• Men’s Line Australia –  1300 78 99 78
• Men’s Referral Service – 1300 766 491