Hume council is holding a range of events as part of 16 Days of Activism, following almost 3000 reports of family violence incidents by Hume residents in 2022.
International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women kicked off the campaign on November 25, which will run through to International Human Rights Day on December 10.
The 16 Days of Activism, which is a global campaign to end gender-based violence by changing the culture that drives it, focuses on the values of safety, equality and respect as necessary to reduce harm on women and girls.
According to council, the overwhelming majority of last year’s family violence incidents were perpetrated by men against women.
This includes the statistics that one in three Australian women have experienced physical violence and 90 per cent of Australian women with an intellectual disability have experienced sexual abuse.
Council also said one in four women, and one in seven men, have experienced emotional abuse by a current or former partner.
Hume mayor Naim Kurt said this campaign is an opportunity for everyone to stand up against gender targeted abusive behaviours.
“Regrettably, family violence rates remain high in the Hume municipal area and as mayor, I am dedicated to raising awareness and changing harmful behaviours for those at risk,” he said.
“I will be joining the walk without violence and supporting the many other activities happening during the 16 Days of Activism.
“Ending gender-based violence is a responsibility for all of us as a community to address.”
A variety of workshops and events have and will be held in Hume to help educate the community about gender equality and family violence prevention.
The inclusive events are presented as an educational tool for all people, regardless of age, gender or race, to build a culture of respect for others.
They include: walks against violence, a film screening, a fatherhood seminar and a webinar to support children of domestic violence.
Details: https://shorturl.at/tKL08
