A Family Violence Response Model That Works — Now It Needs Funding Rachel Payne MP is calling on the Victorian Government to fund the statewide expansion of the Alexis Family Violence Response Model (Alexis-FVRM) — a coordinated police and social services approach that’s already delivering…
Rachel’s constituent of was just one of many women who have suffered under frequent prison lockdowns at Dame Phyllis Frost Centre. She reported missing important appointments as a result, including housing and support appointments, necessary for successful community reintegration.
Taking guidance from a NSW initiative, Rachel asked the Minister for Prevention of Family Violence to establish a publicly accessible database of homicides occurring in the context of an identifiable history of family violence in Victoria.
Rachel asked how the Minister will ensure that Monash Health’s complaints process is made more accessible to individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and those with a disability.
Rachel has previously raised her concerns in the chamber about the dissolution of the Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority (VARTA), which was responsible for the regulation of Assisted Reproductive Treatment, and education programs.
As a participating member of the Legislative Council Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Rachel raised several questions for the panel of stakeholders and industry experts during the final day of the public hearing.
Rachel noted that reports indicate a denial of access to information on voluntary assisted dying, among terminally ill aged care residents. Rachel called on the Minister for Ageing to take steps toward ensuring that information on voluntary assisted dying is freely available to patients, and for greater oversight around respecting patients’ rights to end their own life with dignity at home.
Rachel spoke on a bill presented by her Legalise Cannabis Victoria colleague, David Ettershank MP. The Equal Opportunity Amendment (Medical Treatment) Bill 2026 amends the Equal Opportunity Act to prevent discrimination on the grounds of treatment for a medical condition. While this would encapsulate discrimination against medicinal cannabis patients, it is inclusive of all types of medication prescribed to treat a medical condition. If passed, this bill would include lawful protections against treatment-based discrimination in a variety of settings including employment, education, community clubs, accommodation and more.
On the back of harrowing reports of serious surgical misconduct at Melbourne Private Hospital, Rachel noted a disparity of care within the health system, among women and people who menstruate, Rachel asked the Minister what is being done to ensure that mandatory reporting obligations are taken seriously.
Rachel spoke on a petition tabled by her Legalise Cannabis Victoria colleague, David Ettershank, member for Western Metropolitan. This petition called on the Minister for Planning to halt any progress toward a waste incinerator in Sunbury, citing concerns such as air pollution, impact on ecosystems and proximity to residential development.
