Over the next 16 days councils across Victoria will host a range of local activities and events to encourage community engagement and support for the elimination of violence against women.
Councillor Coral Ross, Interim President of the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) said the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – commonly referred to as White Ribbon Day – marked the start of activities by councils and their local communities.
“Tragically, almost one woman a week is killed by a partner or ex-partner, and data from Our Watch and PwC confirms domestic violence costs the Australian economy $21.7 billion a year.
“These are shocking statistics, but Victorian local government is a world leader in building momentum with their communities to unite and say no to violence against women.
“Councils can effect change through a range of community services they provide including maternal and child health, home and community care, emergency management recovery and local laws.
“Surf Coast Shire was the first employer to have family violence clauses in its enterprise agreement. Seventy-eight Victorian councils now have family violence clauses in their enterprise bargaining agreement, with the final council soon to commence negotiations.
“At least 25 councils also have a dedicated strategy in place for local actions to prevent violence against women, while a further 18 councils have created their own gender equity policy.
“With funding from the State Government, the MAV recently provided grants to 10 councils to bolster local efforts to prevent violence against women. A total of 21 councils are involved in these projects to tailor approaches that respond to local issues.
“We know that gender inequality is the main driver behind violence against women, and so the work being undertaken by councils aims to positively influence and shift community attitudes.
“It’s also pleasing that Victoria now has the highest percentage of women councillors in Australia. This is another small step towards creating gender equality around the decision-making table.”
Victorian councils will participate in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence, which runs from White Ribbon Day on 25 November until International Human Rights Day on 10 December.
Cr Ross said many councils were running events for their staff, as well as hosting activities for local communities such as free art workshops, film screenings, panel discussions, community breakfasts, walks against family violence, and barbeques with local school children.
“Councils have also been invited by the Premier to light up town halls and council buildings as part of the State Government’s Take Action, Go Orange initiative to support the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
“Orange has been designated by the United Nations as a bright and optimistic colour to represent a future free from violence against women and girls. I urge community members to show their support by wearing orange, attending local events, and taking the White Ribbon oath.
“Everyone has a role to play in helping to end men’s violence against women, which is preventable and yet remains a blight on our society.”
