Zonta House Refuge Association has relaunched its Empowerment through Education program, bolstered by a $2.4 million investment from Chevron Australia.
The three-year funding partnership aims to expand family and domestic violence (FDV) recovery and prevention initiatives, building on Zonta House’s legacy as a leading provider of support services in Western Australia.
First introduced in June 2024, the revitalised program focuses on three core pillars: primary prevention, early intervention, and crisis response. The program’s impact has already been profound, with participants reporting increased confidence and preparedness in responding to FDV incidents and supporting survivors.
Data from the first three workshops shows a significant shift in participants’ capabilities, with 100 per cent reporting readiness to take action compared to just 47 per cent before completing the program, more than doubling their confidence.
Raissa Meireles, the program’s Team Leader, said they are committed to creating a safer, more equitable future by addressing the root causes and complexities of FDV.
“Through this program, we aim to empower community members, organisations, and frontline responders with the skills and knowledge necessary to recognise, respond to, and prevent violence against women.”
Matt Riordan, General Manager of Human Resources at Chevron Australia, expressed pride in the partnership with Zonta House.
“Zonta House is making a real difference in the community, and we are pleased that Chevron’s renewed support has enabled them to reignite the Empowerment through Education program for the next three years.
“Our aim is to forge partnerships that benefit the wider community, and we believe we have a role to play in ending the cycle of violence against women and children in the communities where we live and work.”
The re-launch coincides with the 2024 16 Days of WA campaign, a global initiative advocating for the elimination of violence against women. Both organisations celebrated the program’s early successes and reaffirmed their commitment to driving further progress in prevention and education.
The workshops are accessible to the public and can be tailored for organisations, community groups, and sporting teams across Western Australia.
To stay up to date on the latest industry headlines, sign up to the C&I e-newsletter.