Community members clad in orange (a symbol of hope and a brighter future free from violence) gathered at the Botanical Gardens on Wednesday for a community walk against violence, followed by a pub-sing-style rendition of Aretha Franklin’s iconic song Respect.
The event was the culmination of the Mount Alexander Shire Council’s 16 Days of Activism events, which included making a community banner, a gathering to share recipes, biscuits, cooking, and talk about respect, a nightly installation at the Northern Arts Hotel, and an information hub at the Castlemaine Library.
16 Days of Activism is an international initiative established by the United Nations to raise awareness and encourage communities to take action to end gender-based violence.
During the 16 days, people around the world unite to raise awareness about gender-based violence, challenge discriminatory attitudes, and call for improved laws and services to end genderbased violence for good.
Violence against girls and women is a global human rights emergency that must stop. We all deserve to be safe, equal, and respected. Locally, statistics from 2024 found that 75.89 per cent of all reported victim-survivors of family violence in the Mount Alexander region were female.
In 28.1 per cent of incidents attended by police (between July 2023 and June 2024), a child was present and either directly experienced or witnessed the violence.
Fortunately, the rates of reported family violence incidents in the Mount Alexander Shire are lower than the state average, as is the rate of female sexual assaults; however, the need for an end to all gendered violence and a push towards respect remains as important as ever.
Family and gender-based violence includes a range of abusive behaviours: verbal, emotional, psychological, financial, physical, sexual, and elder abuse, as well as intimidation and threats. It’s used to maintain power and control in relationships.
No matter what form it takes, violence is never acceptable.
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing family violence, help is available: Call 000 if you are in immediate danger.
Safe Steps: 1800 015 188
The Orange Door – Mallee: 1800 512 359
Centre for Non-Violence: 1800 884 292
Kids Helpline: 1800 55 1800 Men’s
Referral Service: 1300 766 491
MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78
Rainbow Door: 1800 729 367 (or text 0408 017 24)