The impact of changes to the federal Family Law Act on western suburbs families was the focus of a free community forum last week.
More than 90 residents, health and legal workers attended the Melton forum, hosted by the Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre.
Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre solicitor Craig Stabbler said the act, which came into effect on June 7, sought to prioritise the safety of children and widen the definitions of family violence.
He said domestic violence now included more than just physical abuse, with psychological and financial exploitation defined under the act. Mr Stabbler said Brimbank Melton Community Legal Centre would collaborate with family support services to develop legal advice clinics and community education programs.
“It was recognised that we should deliver early intervention and prevention educational programs to develop a broader understanding of family violence, which is more than just physical abuse,” he said. To contact the Brimbank Community Legal Centre, call 8312 2000
