Surf Coast steps up on family violence

SURF Coast community members took a stand against gender-based violence by joining a Walk Against Family Violence in Torquay last Friday.

Marking the United Nations International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (November 25), participants departed Torquay Community House for an hour long walk in a show of solidarity with the victims and survivors of family violence.

“Shining a light on the issue is an important step, and coming together in this way can help do that,” Surf Coast Shire Councillor Rose Hodge said.

“We need to create conversations and deepen community understanding of the factors which contribute to family and gender-based violence, and help promote gender equity as a key factor in prevention.”

The shire supported the walk as part of its involvement in the 16 Days of Activism that are taking place around the region, country, and world, with similar events taking place locally in Greater Geelong.

Council is also providing funding to help the Torquay Community House establish a library of books and information promoting gender equity, inclusion and respectful relationships.

“The aim of the walk is to unite with thousands of other people walking in Victoria to show our support for victim-survivors and send a message that there is never an excuse for family violence and violence against women,” the House’s co-ordinator Prue Challis said.

“We need to remember that on average one woman a week is murdered by her current or former partner. Domestic violence is the largest driver of homelessness for women, and intimate partner violence is the greatest health risk factor for women aged 25 to 44.

“These are shocking statistics and this is absolutely a national crisis.”