Council welcomes Brimbank Dads funding

Photo: Brain Injury Australia

The new Brimbank Dads program will support new fathers and those with children under five to challenge rigid gender stereotypes and build community awareness about the important role that fathers play.

The Minister announced the State Government would provide $93,000 for the Brimbank Dads program in 2018/2019.

Mayor of Brimbank Cr Margaret Giudice said that Council is committed to preventing family violence and welcomes the State Government’s funding.

“Council has a long standing commitment to prevent violence against women and promote gender equity. 

“This funding will enable Council to continue this important prevention work.

“The Brimbank Dads program will help give dads the skills and confidence to challenge rigid gender roles – we know that this is an effective way to help prevent violence against women and children.

“This program will build community awareness about the important role dads play and the positive impact they can have on children’s early years as role models for promoting gender equality,” Cr Giudice said.

Council will run the new Brimbank Dads program in partnership with Drummond Street Services. The program will include:

·         an online portal for fathers of children aged up to five to access information and support

·         weekly drop-in sessions for those seeking face-to-face support and regular “Dad and me” Saturday activities

·         a cross-cultural communications campaign promoting the important role that fathers play

·         training and resources for Early Years and Maternal and Child Health staff.

“Brimbank welcomes around 2,800 new babies each year – one of the highest birth rates in Victoria.

“By better supporting fathers and showing that our community values their roles as parents – it is our hope that the Brimbank Dads Program will make a real and positive difference to the health and wellbeing of families across Brimbank,” Cr Giudice said.