The Albanese Labor Government will today highlight the role of faith communities in preventing family, domestic, and sexual violence (FDSV) at the launch of the Saving Faith and Cultural Empowerment (FACE) Sector Guide.
Delivered by Muslim Women Australia (MWA), the Saving FACE Sector Guide is a primary prevention initiative developed to support the FDSV sector’s capacity to engage effectively and appropriately with Muslim communities.
Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence, Justine Elliot, emphasised at the launch how the consideration of cultural, linguistic, and religious principles can help to ensure that primary prevention, policies and programs are effective.
“Faith and community leaders are able to champion real change, and play a key role in challenging the attitudes and behaviours that cause and condone violence against women and children,” Assistant Minister Elliot said.
“By incorporating faith-based principles into primary prevention programs, practitioners can engage with men and boys in a way that makes sense and resonates with them.”
“Educating men and boys about healthy and respectful relationships is key to addressing gender inequality and preventing violence, and involves working with people from all walks of life, cultures, backgrounds, and faiths.”
MWA is receiving $1.2 million to develop the Saving FACE Sector Guide and other prevention activities.
The Saving FACE Sector Guide will support the work of the FDSV sector and deliver on the First Action Plan under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032 (National Plan).
