Murrindindi Shire Council strives to provide an inclusive community, ensuring equal access and participation for all individuals in our community.
We recognise that different people face barriers to participation and wellbeing, and we are committed to raising awareness about this and working to address the barriers.
Victoria’s first Gender Equality Act came into effect on 31 March 2021. This legislation requires Council to genuinely promote inclusion for people of all genders and identities in our community. This includes children, young and older people, women and girls, trans and gender diverse people, those with disabilities and culturally diverse community members.
In response to the requirements of the Act, Council has now completed an audit of our organisation and developed a Gender Equality Action Plan.
As required by the Gender Equality Act 2020, many of the actions focus on initially strengthening our internal culture and processes, but we will also be continually reviewing programs and services to help ensure they are inclusive for our communities.
We also have resources to help businesses, clubs, and community groups in our Shire to strengthen their inclusion so that all people in our community have the same opportunity to contribute to their communities and to feel like they belong.
Family Violence
Find information on Family Violence support.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual behaviour that could make a person feel offended, humiliated or intimidated. It doesn’t matter what the intention is, it is against the law - yet it can be very difficult for a person to raise. For support in addressing a particular issue or ensuring your policies and processes are in good shape, click on the relevant links below.
Human Rights Victoria - Sexual Harassment web page
Human Rights Victoria - Sexual Harassment Guidelines
Human Rights Victoria - How to respond to sexual harassment
Flexible work
Did you know that employees have a right to ask for flexible work? And the employers should support reasonable requests? Flexible work can help people of all genders support their families, or balance work with personal or professional development. It has been shown to increase productivity and staff engagement. To find out more, and to get support with talking about flexible work click on the links below.
Human Rights Victoria - Flexible Work web page
Human Rights Victoria - chat about flexible work
In 2021, we asked the community to share stories of women who have shaped or inspired you. The videos below provide a snapshot of the ways women influence our families and our communities.
Lee shares a moment with local matriarch and relative Joan who helped her feel like she belonged from the moment she moved into the Murrindindi Shire community.
Sarah talks about Jo from Marysville SES who has helped her learn new skills and believe she can climb mountains.
Lee shares some memories with Lou who has provided support, wisdom and friendship over the years.