Campaign tries to stop violence at the start

CORANGAMITE federal member Sarah Henderson said the launch of the second phase of the “Stop it at the Start” campaign is an opportunity for the Corangamite community to play a role in helping to break the cycle of violence against women.

The $30 million campaign is jointly funded by the Australian, state and territory governments through the National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women and their Children 2010-2022.

Phase two of the campaign was launched at the National Summit on Reducing Violence Against Women and Their Children in Adelaide earlier his month.

Stop it at the Start aims to help parents, family members, teachers, coaches, employers and other role models to reflect on their own attitudes and have conversations with young people about respect.

Ms Henderson said violence against women continued to affect individuals, families and communities across Australia.

“Too many people experience domestic violence, family violence and sexual assault, and this must change.

“What we might not realise is that we can all play a role in preventing future violence, and it starts with thinking about the example that we’re setting for our kids.

“It’s important to know that we can help stop it at the start. Each of us can play a role by intervening when we see disrespectful behaviour, or talking to our kids about respectful relationships.

“We can also talk to the young people in our schools, on the sporting field, working in our businesses and in other settings about respectful relationships. Let’s make it an open, honest and regular conversation.”

The second phase of advertising for the campaign started on Sunday, supported by online tools and resources – for more information, head to respect.gov.au.

If you or someone you know is affected by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, phone 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or head to 1800RESPECT.org.au.