Mandatory minimum qualifications for specialist family violence response roles

The Victorian Government introduced the Mandatory Minimum Qualifications (MMQ) Policy in 2021. The MMQ Policy was introduced as part of large-scale family violence reforms based on recommendations by the Royal Commission into Family Violence.

The MMQ Policy outlines the minimum qualifications people must hold to work in specialist family violence response roles in Victoria. This policy was designed to improve the status, recognition and professional standing of family violence work, while recognising the high level of skills already held in the workforce.

In 2024, the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) evaluated the MMQ Policy and its implementation. The evaluation recommended a series of changes to the policy that were significant but consistent with its original intent.

Throughout 2025, DFFH worked closely with the specialist family violence sector and tertiary education providers to redevelop the MMQ Policy.

The updated MMQ Policy can be found below and will come into effect from 31 March 2026.

More information

If you have a question about the MMQ Policy and can't find the answer, email mmqpolicy@dffh.vic.gov.au for more information.