The Allan Labor Government is making it easier for Victorians 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 today 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 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.