Thousands March Against Domestic & Family Violence As UN Campaign Begins
Image: Randwick Council/Instagram
Thousands of people from across the state gathered at a Randwick park last week to march against domestic and family violence, as an annual international campaign against the epidemic begins.
The Step Out Speak Out walk saw high school students, members of parliament, and athletes from local sports teams join figureheads including Aunty Maxine Ryan from the La Perouse Aboriginal community, the NSW Governor Margaret Beazley, and the NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon on Friday morning, bringing people from across the community together to raise awareness and make a physical stand against the crime.
The event is held every year on or around November 25, marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, as well as the start of the United Nations’ 16 Day of Activism against gender-based violence.
Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said the event was an important opportunity for the community to stand together against family violence.
“Domestic violence is not a private issue; it’s a community issue,” he said. “Step Out Speak Out is about standing shoulder to shoulder and saying enough is enough.
“Every step we take together sends a message that we will not tolerate violence – not here in Randwick City, not anywhere. Step Out Speak Out is a chance for the community to show survivors that they are not alone and that help is available. This walk is about hope, resilience, and a future free from violence and abuse.”
“We cannot arrest our way out of this”, says police minister
According to statistics from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one woman is killed every eight days by an intimate partner, with the Red Heart Campaign counting 24 children lost to violence this year.
“Last year, police responded to more than 150,000 domestic and family violence-related calls for assistance – that’s one every three and a half minutes,” Police Minister Catley said.
“Police are doing outstanding work, but we cannot arrest our way out of this. Prevention, early intervention and cultural change are essential.”
In an effort to combat the alarming statistics, the Albanese government has today announced an investment of $41.8 million into 1800RESPECT over two years, marking a 40 per cent increase in funding.
The service remains vital- last year, 1800RESPECT received more than 342,000 calls, video calls, online chats and texts, with the demand only expected to increase as more Australians find reach out for help to free themselves from violence.
“It’s a good thing that more people are identifying signs of violence and seeking help,” said Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek. “This announcement means that 1800RESPECT can keep providing this vital service to everyone that contacts them, including victims of violence and family and friends who want to support them.”
You are not alone. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual or family violence and needs support, you can contact:
- 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- LGBTQ+ Rainbow Sexual, Domestic & Family Violence Service Help Line: 1800 385 578
- NSW Mental Health Access Line: 1800 011 511
- Alan Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
- Mensline 1300789978
- Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 1800 250 015
- QLife (3pm to midnight): 1800 184 527
- 13YARN (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander line) – 13 92 76
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