WHISE welcomes new CEO for Respect Victoria, thanks current leadership for their partnership

In light of the recent surge in media coverage of gender-based violence and the urgent need for effective measures to address this crisis, Women's Health in the South East (WHISE) has warmly welcomed the appointment of Helen Bolton as the new CEO of Respect Victoria. 

Kit McMahon, CEO of WHISE, stated, "The Board of Respect Victoria has clearly undertaken a rigorous selection process to ensure this appointment aligns with the organisation's mission and the critical work ahead in preventing gender-based violence. We are confident in their choice." 

McMahon added, "Several WHISE staff members have collaborated with Helen in the past. Her track record demonstrates a profound understanding of primary prevention, the imperative to address root causes, and the significance of feminist intersectional approaches in our field." 

For decades, WHISE, alongside other women's health services, has been at the forefront of community-based initiatives to prevent violence against women.  

Currently, WHISE spearheads the implementation of the Southern Metropolitan Region's primary prevention plan, "Promoting Equality and Respect Together." This comprehensive strategy employs a range of activities targeting social determinants of health to stop address gendered violence. 

"Respect Victoria plays a pivotal role in fostering strong, coordinated, evidence-based, and proactive prevention work. It is also instrumental in bolstering our sector," McMahon emphasised.  

"We also want to acknowledge the exemplary leadership of interim CEO, Serina McDuff. Her efforts in establishing robust partnerships within our sector, her deep understanding of our often-misrepresented work, her team's advocacy, and her respectful collaboration with the sector have been invaluable." 

WHISE looks forward to collaborating with and supporting Helen Bolton in her new role as CEO. As with all the Victorian Women’s Health Services, the organisation is committed to further strengthening the crucial partnership between Respect Victoria and the prevention sector.  

This alliance is fundamental to empowering and amplifying collective efforts in preventing gender-based violence, driving meaningful change to create safer communities for everyone.