Young people across the Geelong and Colac regions will continue to have access to dedicated family violence support thanks to new government funding announced today.
Meli has welcomed the news it will receive a share of the $180 million Federal and State Government funding package, securing the continued operation of its specialist ASPIRE program for young people.
ASPIRE provides early‑intervention family violence support for those aged 16-21, helping them stay safe, understand their risks, and remain connected to education, legal assistance and stable housing.
Launched in 2023, the program embeds family violence specialists within youth homelessness services, offering trauma‑informed, wraparound support that honours each young person’s rights, strengths and agency.
Meli CEO Robyn Hayles said the funding arrives at a critical time for young people in regional communities.
“Young people are navigating increasingly complex pressures – from family violence to limited housing options – and those living outside metropolitan areas often face extra barriers when seeking help,” Ms Hayles said.
“This funding strengthens our ability to keep delivering the kind of specialist, trauma‑aware support that helps young people feel safer today and more hopeful about tomorrow.”
Operating across Geelong, Colac, Little River, Bannockburn and Teesdale, ASPIRE bridges gaps between traditional service boundaries, ensuring young people can access flexible, responsive and age‑appropriate support when they need it.
The program is already demonstrating strong outcomes, with almost all participants developing personalised safety plans and many progressing beyond crisis situations – stabilising mental health, building life skills, and re‑engaging with school, training or employment.
The funding forms part of the renewed Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence Responses 2025-30 Federation Funding Agreement.
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