November 25 is the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and marks the begginning of 16 days of activism under the UNiTE campaign.
Good Shepherd Australia New Zealand program manager for family violence services Erin Price said Melton and Brimbank residents can show their support by taking part in the Walk Against Family Violence in Melbourne on November 25.
“To get involved, you can share 16 Days of Activism posts with your social networks to raise awareness but also take action day to day by saying something when women are disrespected and if you’re a leader at work, advocate for equal working conditions such as paid parental leave,” Ms Price said.
“We can eliminate family violence if we stand together as a community.”
Good Shepherd has been delivering family and financial counselling services in Melton and Brimbank for over 30 years.
Staff will take part in the Walk Against Family Violence in Melbourne to mark the United Nations’ International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women alongside other community organisations such as Safe Steps, Safe and Equal and Respect Victoria to raise awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for solutions.
Ms Price said family violence was pervasive and widespread.
“It occurs across all ages, socioeconomic and demographic groups but mainly affects women and children,” she said.
“Family violence is a leading cause of homelessness and, sadly, people who as children witnessed partner violence against their parents were two to four times as likely to experience partner violence themselves as adults than people who had not.
“The estimated cost of violence against women and children in Australia in 2015-16 was $22 billion. We must work together across prevention, early intervention, response, recovery, and healing, in partnership with business and the community to eliminate family violence.”
