PAYCE BACKS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PREVENTION PROGRAM WITH TOOLBOX TALKS

Dominic Sullvan discusses the importance of the Toolbox Talks program in Western Sydney - 2019

PAYCE has been a long-time supporter of Sutherland Shire Family Services through its philanthropic arm, PAYCE Foundation, and was one of the key organisations in the construction industry to initially come on board and support the Domestic Violence Toolbox Talks program," Mr Sullivan explained.

"The program aims to harness the power of good men and create a shift in culture to empower all men to stand up against domestic violence," Mr. Sullivan added.

Sutherland Shire Family Services CEO Diane Manns said the on-site Toolbox Talks provide an opportunity for men to gain a real understanding of the nature of domestic violence.

"The program objective is to begin a conversation on the far-reaching impact of domestic violence, as well as offering practical solutions for men to identify and respond appropriately if they recognise or suspect violence is occurring," Ms Manns said.

High Rates of Domestic Violence in parts of Western Sydney need Assistance – Dominic Sullivan

Mr Sullivan said domestic violence was a scourge in society with particularly high rates in parts of western Sydney.

"Sutherland Shire Family Services has a great track record helping people in crisis and when this project was conceived we were pleased to lend our support," he said.

"The Melrose Park urban renewal project is the biggest in Sydney, involving thousands of workers.

"It is a 10-year project which will include 6000 new apartments, a new town centre, parks and community facilities," Mr. Sullivan continued.

"Commencing today we want as many construction workers on the site as possible to participate in the program," he said.

"Through the PAYCE Foundation we are committed to assisting people in crisis and this domestic violence program addresses one of the biggest issues facing our community."

Toolbox Talks Program Rolls Out with Success – Dominic Sullivan

Mr Sullivan said the Toolbox Talks program was one of just seven, first round successful applicants in the Domestic Violence Innovation Fund announced in 2017 by the NSW Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Pru Goward.

"The program has already been held across 12 building sites with over 3500 men participating," he said.

"We believe the program will, in time, have a significant impact on the current disturbing domestic violence statistics."

More information is available at toolboxtalks.org.au