Jade Benham MP has called on the Premier to clarify whether the recently announced Family Violence Protection Package will address the critical needs of the Mildura Multidisciplinary Centre (MDC).
The MDC, which incorporates the Mallee Sexual Assault Unit and the Mallee Domestic Violence Unit, is in dire need of expansion due to the region’s alarmingly high rates of family violence – the highest in the state.
Despite promises made years ago for a new facility, with a building and land already purchased in Mildura’s legal district to improve collaboration with Victoria Police and the Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team progress has stalled.
“These enhancements are essential for the MDC to provide more effective support to victims and survivors of sexual assault and family violence.
“In my very first month in this role, I met with the dedicated teams at the MDC, including members of Victoria Police.
“I reviewed the plans that have unfortunately been gathering dust for years,” said Ms Benham.
“The community of Mildura has been waiting too long for these much-needed improvements. It is time for the government to put its money where its mouth is.”
Ms Benham is urging the Premier to ensure that the new package will include funding for the expanded centre in Mildura. The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated – the safety and well-being of victims and survivors depend on it.
