Thirty-four women have been killed by violence in Australia this year, according to Counting Dead Women Australia.
As we come into Grand Final weekend here in Victoria, and other finals seasons around Australia, we need to acknowledge that there is a rise in family violence risk around these times.
Family violence is one of the most complex crises facing our society and the truth is undeniable: it is not someone else’s problem – it demands that all of us be part of the solution.
Recently I’ve been reflecting on the many ways Australians have come together to prevent and respond to family violence.
Governments at every level have made significant progress in recent years. Here in Victoria, the Royal Commission into Family Violence in 2016 was a critical turning point, laying bare the devastating impact of violence and delivering 227 recommendations – all of which the government has implemented.
Initiatives like our nation-leading Ballarat saturation model are moving the dial on how we embed cultural change and show the power of grassroots action reaching people where they learn, work, live and play.
The four-year model will bring together every part of the community – from local sporting clubs, workplaces, community, organisations health services, council, schools, emergency services and more – to deliver a new coordinated approach to prevention.
While this work has brought about meaningful progress we must acknowledge that our work is far from finished.
Our new plan, Until every Victorian is safe: Third rolling action plan to end family and sexual violence, lays out a bold vision but success hinges on one vital factor: us.
I was reminded of this during a visit to the Multicultural Association of Community Empowerment (MACE) in Taylors Lakes. What started as a free Bollywood dance session for mothers has become a vibrant community hub that brings people from all backgrounds together for festivals and celebrations, youth mentoring and support for older people.
The founder of the organisation noticed early on that when mums from migrant backgrounds came together, they talked of their struggles including some who were living with family violence.
The volunteers decided to help by fundraising, organising food deliveries, running financial literacy workshops and helping women to navigate their options for seeking help – including through Victoria’s nation-leading Orange Door network.
Meanwhile, the Dulap Wilim Hub (meaning Proud Place in Woi-wurrung) in the City of Hume provides a safe space for women and children to learn, connect and access services such as the Orange Door while they’re attending maternal child health appointments, Breakfast Club, homework clubs and other activities.
These are just two of countless examples of community-led initiatives creating connection, reducing isolation, and showing how local action can drive meaningful responses to family violence.
Preventing violence means stopping it before it starts. That begins with challenging gender inequality and disrespect wherever we see it – in our homes, workplaces, schools and communities – and dismantling the structures that perpetuate inequality.
Community organisations are uniquely placed to effect meaningful change in this space. Local clubs, cultural groups, faith-based organisations and neighbourhood networks are often the cornerstone of social connection.
While family violence prevention may not be their primary focus, these groups can help foster respectful relationships, challenge harmful behaviours and create safe spaces for open conversations.
Many men and boys are eager to actively contribute to the change needed to end family and sexual violence but can face social pressure and be reluctant to challenge disrespectful and harmful attitudes and behaviours.
We are the first state to introduce a Parliamentary Secretary for Men’s Behaviour Change whose role is to focus on shaping values, behaviours and attitudes of men and boys towards women, and our Healthy Masculinities campaign is talking directly to men and boys about behaviours and attitude.
Preventing violence means stopping it before it starts. That begins with challenging gender inequality and disrespect wherever we see it – in our homes, workplaces, schools, communities, duringsporting events – and dismantling the structures that perpetuate inequality.