Indian women in Ballarat facing family violence will soon have better support, thanks to Project Sitara, which has won a $30,000 grant from the Ballarat Women’s Fund.
The funding will help the Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council (BRMC) provide culturally tailored family violence support. The project will train Indian women as Community Champions, giving them the skills to offer trusted support and referrals within their community.
Why This Matters
Many women from diverse backgrounds experience family violence but don’t seek help due to stigma, language barriers, and lack of culturally sensitive services. Project Sitara aims to change this by:
- Training Indian women as trusted support leaders.
- Running workshops and awareness programs to break the silence.
- Building stronger referral networks for victims of family violence.
Ballarat Community Votes for Change
The Ballarat Women’s Fund voted for Project Sitara at the annual Pick Our Project event, where community members choose initiatives that empower women. Other finalists included:
- A perinatal education program for new mothers.
- A gender-based violence prevention program in football clubs.
The Ballarat Women’s Fund has raised over $100,000 in its first year, showing the power of community giving in making a real difference.
What’s Next?
Project Sitara will now train 8-12 Indian women as volunteer Community Champions. These women will provide support, run awareness sessions, and help connect victims with vital services. The project will also include survivor stories and expert insights to break barriers and encourage help-seeking.
Ballarat Foundation CEO, Andrew Eales, says, “This grant shows how community-driven giving can create lasting change. Project Sitara will make Ballarat a safer, more inclusive place for women.”
BRMC CEO, Suzanne Ryan-Evers, adds, “Family violence affects every culture, and our goal is to ensure Indian women in Ballarat can access the support they need. This funding allows us to take action where it’s most needed.”
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