National Domestic Violence Remembrance Day is today, May 7, and people across the country are marking the occasion with candlelight vigils for remembrance of the many lives taken.
Over the last three years, there has been a nearly 30 per cent increase in the number of women killed in domestic and family violence related homicides.
On average, a woman in Australia dies every 7 days from domestic and family violence.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women face further disproportionate impacts, as they are eight times more likely to be victims of homicide. This is highlighted in the Missing and Murdered First Nations Women and Children Report.
Domestic, family and sexual violence remains a national crisis in Australia, and yet these forms of violence are preventable. Taking measures to prevent violence, responding to violence, supporting victim-survivors in their recovery and holding perpetrators accountable are all critical steps in ending the crisis.
“We are losing way too many women and children every year to this horrific experience and as a community we have to say no,” said Full Stop Australia CEO, Karen Bevan.
“The team at Full Stop Australia extend our heartfelt solidarity to the loved ones left behind in the aftermath of DFV homicide and acknowledge the deep, and unique loss behind every news story or statistic,” said Bevan.
“Full Stop Australia supports a collective of family members who have lost their loved ones to domestic and family violence homicide. This group engages in advocacy work with government and decision makers to address gaps in systems that respond to violence and support loved ones after a homicide occurs.”
Marking the day as well, a representative (Kylie) from Australian Voices for the Silenced said “families who have lost someone ask that you light a candle in memory of all those women and children who we have lost to domestic violence.”
“Remembrance is not just about honoring the past; it is about the future. In our loved one’s name we demand justice for those who are silenced, and accountability in a system where there are giant chasms that are costing lives. No other family should have to bear this devastating loss.”
According to the Australian Femicide Watch, 103 women were killed in Australia in 2024. As of April 25, 2025 there have been 24 women killed in Australia.
Full Stop Australia provides trauma-specialist counselling for anyone in Australia impacted by sexual, domestic or family violence. Our counselling support is 24/7, free and confidential. Call 1800 FULL STOP (1800 385 578) or webchat at http://fullstop.org.au
For help or support please call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or Lifeline on 13 11 14.