Case Study: Bass Coast Shire Council

Men Supporting Safer Communities: Bass Coast Shire Council and South Gippsland Shire Council Case Study

Why it is important - The majority of violence in Australia is perpetrated by men, it is crucial to focus on understanding and addressing the factors driving men's use of violence.

Councils recognise the need to examine the influences on men’s identities, lives, and relationships, as well as the societal expectations and pressures that shape their behavior. By working with men and boys to explore and challenge harmful notions of masculinity, councils can play a key role in preventing gendered violence.

During the 16 Days of Activism Against gender Based Violence 2024 Campaign, Bass Coast Shire Council and South Gippsland Shire Council hosted a webinar. An online conversation reflecting on the positive role that men and boys can play in preventing and reducing violence, and help build communities where women are safe and equal.

The event was facilitated by Bass Coast Shire Council CEO Greg Box, with guest speakers Dr Michael Flood and Tarang Chawla, to discuss the positive contribution men and boys can make to violence prevention.

There has been 182 views of the recording. Participants expressed a desire to have more conversations with the men in their lives about the role men can play in violence prevention. Attendees also mentioned that they gained a better understanding of the importance of challenging social constructs. Rather than feeling overwhelmed by the problem, they recognised that it’s the small, everyday actions that can help shift cultural norms within their own circles.

Call to action - Violence against women is a men's issue and much of the work is around supporting men and boys to engage in the conversation.

Know that change is possible, it starts with personal reflection and conversations.