The Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program (FARREP) addresses the practice of FGM/C and its harmful impact on the reproductive and sexual health of women, girls and people assigned female at birth.
Our FARREP worker speaks Arabic, English, Tigrinya and Tigre, and provides:
- female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) information and education to groups and individuals, addressing sexual and reproductive health and referral to appropriate services to women experiencing FGM/C
- face-to-face or telephone health information and referral to support services
- consultation and training opportunities for health professionals on FGM/C awareness
- advice and consultation to service providers on reproductive and sexual health issues, with a particular focus on FGM/C
Contact us at programs@mcwh.com.au to speak to our FARREP worker about FGM/C resources and support pathways.
Further resources can also be found on the NETFA (National Education Toolkit for FGM/C Awareness) website .
FARREP is funded by the Victorian Government and operates in key locations across the Melbourne metropolitan area through the work of bilingual and bicultural FARREP workers placed in relevant agencies, such as MCWH, in these locations.
These locations are in the Northern, Western and Southern metropolitan regions of Melbourne. FARREP also operates in other areas around Victoria, including in the rural areas, through the work of FARREP staff based in statewide agencies.
What is FGM/C?
FGM/C is a universal issue that impacts many people in Australia.
FGM/C comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognised internationally as a violation of human and health rights of women, girls and people assigned female at birth. FGM/C is not confined to any religion, culture or country.
FGM/C has serious short term and long term health impacts on people, including when they become pregnant. Many people experience barriers to receiving appropriate care due to the lack of awareness of this issue.
With all the progress that has been made in to fight against FGM, its prevalence has declined, and ongoing education remains crucial. Building on the advancements made in the past few decades, continued to engage the whole community focusing on human rights and gender equality, sexual education, and responding to the needs of women and girls who suffer from FGM health consequences.
Contact the FARREP program
For further information or to book a health education session, email programs@mcwh.com.au.