International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), observed annually on 6 February, is an opportunity to raise awareness and highlight progress to end female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), while recognising the work happening every day across Victoria to support affected women, girls and communities.
Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C), sometimes referred to as female genital cutting, is a traditional cultural practice and a significant public health, human rights and gender equity issue. While the practice is illegal in Victoria and across Australia, estimates suggest there are around 120,000 migrant women in Australia who experienced FGM/C in their country of birth.
In Victoria, women and families affected by FGM/C are supported by a network of specialist clinicians, community organisations and Family and Reproductive Rights Education Program (FARREP) workers. Together, they deliver culturally safe, trauma-informed care, education and prevention activities and support women to navigate the health system with compassion and dignity.
Through the Women's Health and Wellbeing Program, the Victorian Government funds services that support women, girls and communities affected by FGM/C to access care, information and support. This includes specialist healthcare, counselling, community education and outreach, and workforce capability building to strengthen culturally safe practice across the health system.
One example of this important work is the African Women's Clinic at the Royal Women's . The clinic provides specialist, nurse-and-midwife-led care for women of all ages who have experienced genital cutting, providing culturally safe and trauma-informed care.
Marie Jones, Nurse Practitioner and Midwife who has led the African Women's Clinic since its inception in 2010, said the clinic focuses on providing information and holistic support to meet each woman's individual needs.
"At the Royal Women's Hospital, the African Women's Clinic provides specialist, culturally safe and trauma-informed care for women of all ages who have experienced genital cutting," Marie said.
"The team offers clear information about the type of cutting experienced and care options, support for concerns across periods, sex, urination and pregnancy, cervical screening and sexual health care, counselling and emotional support, and de-infibulation procedures when appropriate. With FARREP support, women can access care that is holistic, respectful and tailored to their needs."
Across Victoria, FARREP workers play a vital role in supporting similar approaches by working alongside communities, strengthening trust in services, supporting prevention efforts and working with clinicians to deliver culturally safe care. Their work helps ensure women and girls feel safe to seek support and are met with understanding and respect.
Last week, clinicians and community workers from across Australia came together at the Australian FGM/C Support Network Conference, hosted by the Royal Women's Hospital in partnership with the Australian FGM/C Support Network for Healthcare providers.
The conference supported workforce capability building by sharing practical skills, best practice and collaborative approaches to care for women and girls affected by FGM/C.
"This conference brings clinicians from across Australia together to strengthen practical skills, confidence and shared approaches to caring for women and girls who have experienced FGM/C," Marie said.
"It's an important opportunity to build capability and ensure care reflects the voices and needs of the communities we work with."
For more information about FGM/C and support services available in Victoria, see the Better Health .
Reviewed 12 February 2026