The program received a boost after the state government, in partnership with the Municipal Association of Victoria, announced a $150,000 grant to help councils establish and improve programs tackling violence against women.

Mayor Sel Sanli said the new program was likely to build on the work that the council had done during the past five years.

"The money will help establish a regional prevention network to co-ordinate training and develop and distribute resources to local prevention programs."

Cr Sanli said the council's program aimed to prevent violence against women before it occurred.

"The council has taken a lead role in working to prevent violence against women with local government, health and community services identified as key settings for preventing violence against women.

"The program has had a lot of success, locally and across the state, and we're looking forward to being able to increase that."

The grant will be used to hire a project officer based at the Municipal Association office who will work with councils.

The officer will help councils develop processes, policies and programs that focus on the prevention of violence against women.

Women's Affairs Minister Maxine Morand said violence against women was one of the most significant social issues facing the community.

"Our partnership with the MAV will fund resources to support councils, health and community organisations across Victoria to undertake prevention activity.

"Regional prevention networks will be established to co-ordinate training and develop and distribute tools and resources for locally driven prevention programs."