Geelong set for landmark conference on gendered violence

GEELONG Women Unionists Network (GWUN) is hosting a pivotal weekend at Geelong Trades Hall dedicated to tackling family and gendered violence.

The Reclaim the Night March, a global stance against gendered violence and street harassment, is scheduled to start at 5.30pm on Friday, October 27 with a comprehensive conference to follow on October 28.

GWUN co-convenor Adele Welsh stressed the importance of the events.

“We are striving to highlight the entrenched nature of violence against women. Gender inequality forms the foundation that perpetuates and reinforces such violence,” she said.

“Unequal relationships between genders are key drivers behind violence against women. Our societal, legal, and industrial frameworks, alongside policies, are falling short in both promoting gender equality and in effectively addressing violence.

“When violence does occur, the systems often fail to provide adequate protection for women.”

Ms Walsh said attendees would be calling for robust action from all government levels to protect women, children, and the LGBTIQA+ community.

She said the public should never underestimate the impact of attending events such as this.

“The world’s inaugural Paid Family Violence Leave Clause was established at the Surf Coast Shire. The ASU delegate pivotal in securing this clause was a GWUN member. She first became acquainted with the clause during a GWUN gathering at Geelong Trades Hall.”

The conference promises an array of esteemed speakers, including Arrernte writer and commentator Celeste Liddle, and the assistant secretary of Victoria Trades Hall Wil Stracke. Other notable contributors include Karen Batt, CPSU State and National Secretary; Geelong MP Christine Couzens; and City of Greater Geelong councillors Sarah Hathway (from Windermere Ward) and Elise Wilkinson (from Bellarine Ward).

Sessions will delve into themes such as “Gender Beyond the Binary” and “The Systemic Oppression of Aboriginal Women”.

Ms Welsh encouraged everyone from “all races, all genders, all identities, all cultures and all abilities” to participate.

Reservations can be made at trybooking.com/events/landing/1120224