Mounties Group Takes Real Strides Against Domestic and Family Violence

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Continuing its mission against domestic and family violence (DFV), Mounties Group — the largest club organisation in NSW — is making significant strides beyond its initial action plan. The Group's commitment to providing a safe, supportive environment for its staff, members and the surrounding community is taking shape through recent practical measures.

Key Points

Mounties Group reinforces its commitment by implementing tangible measures following its DFV Action Plan launch.
Practical steps taken include the provision of 10 days’ paid leave for affected staff and the creation of an experienced working group leading development of policies and initiatives.
Comprehensive training has been provided at all levels of the organisation, from team members to the board, to provide an informed response to domestic and family violence incidents.
Growing collaboration with local care organisations ensures accessible, continuous support for employees, members and the community.

After launching its Domestic and Family Violence Action Plan earlier this month, Mounties Group has quickly implemented a series of practical policies. Recognising the profound workplace impact of DFV and the important role employers can play, Mounties has introduced 10 days of paid leave for staff affected by such challenging circumstances. The initiative ensures that individuals facing these challenges do not have to choose between safety and their livelihood.

Mounties Group's initiatives are not just policy, they have important personal links. Employees with lived experiences are at the forefront, guiding new policies and leading awareness campaigns. Their stories highlight the crucial need and impact of such an empathetic workplace approach.

"I couldn't escape the cycle until someone at work reached out with a helping hand," shared an anonymous Mounties Group employee, whose journey from victim to survivor was marked by the caring support of her employers.

"The security of knowing my job was safe, even when my life wasn't, gave me the strength to change my situation."

Education remains an important foundation of Mounties Group’s strategy. Mounties has provided comprehensive training for all its staff, ensuring employees are better equipped to identify and respond to colleagues or members of the community who may be experiencing domestic and family violence. From team members on the ground, all the way to senior executives and the Board, all staff have been trained with the skills to identify the need for and provide support.

"Empathy and understanding in the workplace can be a beacon of hope for those facing domestic and family violence struggles," said Arely Carrion, Executive Manager of Community at Mounties Group.

"Our initiatives reflect the real-life situations our colleagues face. They aren't just policies — they're lifelines."

The Group has partnered with emergency services and support organisations in the community, including Bonnie’s Support Services, Zen Tea Lounge Foundation, Women and Children First and Central Coast Domestic Violence Court Advocacy Service, to bridge the gap between victims and the resources they desperately need, while a dedicated DFV webpage has been created to host essential resources and links to access services.

Mounties Group recently held a luncheon to bring together key stakeholders and the community on this important matter. Hosted by Australian television presenter and journalist, Jacinta Tynan, the event featured addresses by Hannah Tonkin, NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner; Rebecca Glenn, Founder of the Centre for Women’s Economic Safety; Senior Sargent Brett Grenfell, Crime Prevention Unit from Fairfield City Police Area Command and Gabrielle Morrissey, CEO of Women and Children First.

Drawing attention and support across the industry, the luncheon served as a melting pot of ideas, discussions, and pledges, uniting community members, experts, and leaders in a stand against domestic and family violence.

"Our role doesn’t end with providing entertainment and leisure. We’re here to ensure that our community thrives. If our initiatives can change or save even one life, every effort is worthwhile," said Mounties Group President John Dean.

Through these tangible actions, Mounties Group is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment, while serving as inspiration for others to follow suit. By embedding the principles of care and support into their corporate structure, Mounties is redefining the role of businesses in employee and community welfare, demonstrating how organisations can make a meaningful contribution towards supporting those experiencing domestic and family violence.