Murrindindi Shire Council aims to support a community where everyone can thrive. We recognise that different people face barriers to participation and wellbeing. We are committed to raising awareness about this and working to address the barriers.
Violence against women is a serious and distressing issue in our community, include physical and psychological violence. Research tells us that gender inequality (such as stereotypes or ‘rules’ about how women and men or boys and girls should be) is a key driver of this violence; and communities that are more unequal experience higher levels of violence. So any efforts we make to create a more gender equal community, also help to reduce violence.
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 an action plan. Council's Gender Equality Action Plan is available for viewing. 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
For information on family violence support click here.
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 March 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.
We also support and promote This Girl Can initiatives and a number of events at our Library branches.