New pathways into family violence support workforce

The Victorian Government is making it easier for First Nations people in rural and regional areas to build a career in the family violence support sector, with a new, fully funded training pathway that removes barriers to education and strengthens cultural safety.

Minister for Prevention of Family Violence Natalie Hutchins has announced a $1 million investment to deliver a new, adapted Graduate Certificate of Social and Community Services program with 68 fully funded places available in 2026 and 2027.

“The specialist family violence workforce is highly regarded in our state – and we’re making sure First Nations people and regional Victorians can get the training they need through a flexible, culturally safe program,” Ms Hutchins said.

“This is about investing in people and easing cost of living pressures, while tackling workforce shortages and supporting more Victorians into meaningful careers.”

The new qualification will give workers better access to training, helping attract and retain a diverse and highly skilled family violence workforce that reflects communities across Victoria.

Delivered by Federation University, the adapted Graduate Certificate of Social and Community Services will be developed in close partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and the family violence sector.

Minimum qualifications for specialist family violence roles were introduced following a recommendation of the Royal Commission into Family Violence, helping ensure high-quality support for victim survivors.

An evaluation of these reforms highlighted the need for more flexible, culturally appropriate training pathways – especially for Aboriginal workers and those living outside metropolitan Melbourne.

Applications for 2026 placements in the adapted graduate certificate will open later this year.