On May 31 and June 1, over 400 members of the Country Women’s Association rallied at the Melbourne Showgrounds, demanding increased funding and resources for vulnerable women, children and families.
State president Jennifer Nola said the state conference was a crucial opportunity for the group to address key issues central to its cause.
“While no scones will be baked at the state conference, we will be sharing information, having the discussions and committing to the actions that can make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable women, children and families across Victoria,” she said.
The CWA advocated for a deeper look into women’s safety, as rising family and domestic violence rates had reached a level considered a national crisis.
“We can’t continue to have women who are scared to go home, suffering from coercive control, elder abuse, financial abuse,” Ms Nola said.
“It (abuse) can be so subtle. It doesn’t matter what demographic you’re in, whether you’re wealthy or poor; it happens across the board.
“It’s a societal issue, and there needs to be more conversation and more money provided until this change can happen.”
Ms Nola called for more support for women aged 55 and older, the fastest-growing group of people experiencing homelessness in Australia.
“At that age, a lot of those women don’t have access to superannuation because they missed the compulsory superannuation boat,” she said.
“They don’t have savings, super, or a good-paying job to get their own accommodation.
“While the young generation will be better off having compulsory superannuation, we need the government to provide for these women meanwhile through a payment or benefit of some sort.”
The CWA also pushed for more mental health facilities and increased education in schools to prevent violent attitudes developing towards women and stop violence against women from continuing into future generations.
“Does mental health, financial difficulties, cost of living, doesn’t that all lead to stress in relationships?” Ms Nola said.
“Why are we not taught relationship skills in school (to prevent this)?”
While the CWA is dedicated to advocating for the safety and fair treatment of vulnerable Victorians, it also serves as a social support network for women.
There are multiple CWA branches throughout the Goulburn Valley.
“(The state conference) is a chance for our members from across the state to catch up, renew old friendships and make new ones. Connections are really important,” Ms Nola said.