Council
13 June, 2024
Leaders launch new initiative to inspire equality
A GROUNDBREAKING partnership to drive gender quality and violence prevention has been launched, with some of the biggest entities in the south west throwing their support behind the initiative.
The Barwon South West partnership was launched recently to create a significant milestone towards advancing gender equality and preventing violence against women.
Leaders across the Barwon South West join forces in launching the partnership called Respect 2040, creating a significant milestone towards advancing gender equality
The inaugural Respect 2040 Executive Governance Group consists of 12 organisations representing education, government, sport, health and services.
The Executive Governance Group includes the Barwon South West Public Health Unit, Borough of u, Brophy Family and Youth Services, City of Greater Geelong, Corangamite Shire Council, Sexual and Family Violence Centre, South West Sport, South West TAFE, Wannon Water, Warrnambool East Primary School and the Western Victoria Public Health Network.
The group, who met for the first time, are united in their commitment to tackling gender-based inequalities and promoting safer, more inclusive communities.
“This collaboration represents a great step forward in our collective efforts to achieve gender equality and eliminate violence against women,” said Jodie Hill, chief executive officer at Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West, the organisation coordinating the Respect 2040 partnership.
“By uniting forces, we can amplify our impact and create change that extends far beyond our individual capacities.”
Corangamite Shire director sustainable development Justine Linley said the message was one vital to the shire’s core values.
“Respect is one of the three core values of Corangamite Shire, together with integrity and teamwork,” she said.
“Actively participating in Respect 2040 is essential to bringing to life these values.
“Together, with integrity and respect, we can be the change needed to end violence towards women and children.”
The partnership builds on work undertaken separately in the Geelong and Great South Coast regions and unites partners in a collaborative regional effort.
“This partnership enables us to expand our reach and implement innovative strategies that address the root causes of gender inequality and promote positive, respectful relationships,” Ms Hill said.
“We invite other organisations who want to step up and play their part to join us.”